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Sizzling Scallops Lime Cilantro

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These sizzling scallops are perfectly seared and finished with a fresh, creamy lime cilantro sauce. Made in under 20 minutes, this dish blends savory garlic, tangy citrus, and vibrant herbs for a balanced flavor that feels both light and luxurious. Using dry-packed scallops ensures a perfect crust, while Greek yogurt adds a silky richness to the sauce. Ideal for a quick seafood dinner or an elevated meal without the fuss.

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Created By Sarah
Last updated on Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:36:59 GMT
A plate of food with a spoon on it. Save
A plate of food with a spoon on it. | sarahmeal.com

Sizzling scallops cooked to a golden crust come alive with a creamy lime cilantro sauce that brightens every bite. This dish is perfect when you want a quick yet impressive seafood dinner that feels both fresh and indulgent.

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something light but satisfying. Now it is my go-to when I want something elegant without fuss.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dry-packed sea scallops: dry-packed scallops sear better and avoid excess water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: a good quality oil enhances the sear and adds subtle richness
  • 1 tbsp butter: adds depth and helps create a golden crust
  • 2 garlic cloves minced: fresh garlic brings aromatic sharpness
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice: gives a bright, zesty note essential to the sauce
  • 1 tsp lime zest: intensifies the lime flavor with a fresh citrus punch
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: adds herbaceous freshness and color
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream: creates the creamy base for the sauce
  • 1 tsp honey: balances acidity with subtle sweetness
  • Salt and pepper to taste: enhances and rounds all flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat scallops dry and season:
Pat each scallop dry thoroughly using paper towels. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavor and prepare for searing.
Blend the sauce:
Combine lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, honey, and a pinch of salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Heat the skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter. Heat until butter melts and the mixture is hot and shimmering but not smoking.
Sear scallops:
Carefully place scallops in the skillet flat-side down. Sear undisturbed for 2 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes until cooked through but still tender inside.
Plate and sauce:
Arrange scallops on plates and spoon the lime cilantro sauce generously over them to add creamy brightness to each bite.
Garnish and serve:
Add extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges around the scallops for fresh garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm scallops and cool sauce.

Cilantro is my favorite ingredient here because it adds vibrant freshness that lifts the dish. I remember the first time I served this to friends and they were amazed by how simple ingredients came together so beautifully.

Storage tips

Store leftover scallops and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat scallops gently to prevent overcooking, and stir sauce before serving again.

Ingredient substitutions

Greek yogurt can be replaced with sour cream for a slightly different tang

Lemon juice is a fine substitute if fresh limes are not accessible

A pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño can be added to the sauce for a spicy variation

Serving suggestions

Serve alongside jasmine rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal

Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the citrus notes

For a light appetizer, serve scallops on small toasts with a dollop of sauce

Cultural context

Scallops are prized in many coastal cuisines for their delicate sweetness and quick cooking time. This recipe combines classic searing technique with fresh herbaceous and citrus flavors typical of modern seafood dishes, delivering restaurant-quality taste at home.

A white plate with 6 scallops and a dollop of sauce. Save
A white plate with 6 scallops and a dollop of sauce. | sarahmeal.com

Pro Tips

A plate of food with a spoon on it. Save
A plate of food with a spoon on it. | sarahmeal.com

Common Recipe Questions

→ Why use dry-packed scallops?

Dry-packed scallops are free of added water or preservatives, which allows them to sear better and develop a golden crust.

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use sour cream or crème fraîche for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad make excellent accompaniments to the scallops and sauce.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The lime cilantro sauce can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ How do I reheat leftover scallops?

Reheat scallops gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

Sizzling Scallops Lime Cilantro

Golden scallops with creamy lime cilantro sauce—quick, flavorful, and elegant.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Duration
20 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Cuisine Style: Seafood

Servings Yield: 3 Portion Size (2–3 servings)

Diet Preferences: Low-Carb Option, Gluten-Free Option

What You'll Need

→ Scallops and Searing

Ingredient 01 1 lb dry-packed sea scallops
Ingredient 02 2 tbsp olive oil
Ingredient 03 1 tbsp butter
Ingredient 04 Salt and pepper to taste

→ Lime Cilantro Sauce

Ingredient 05 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Ingredient 06 1 tsp lime zest
Ingredient 07 2 garlic cloves, minced
Ingredient 08 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
Ingredient 09 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Ingredient 10 1 tsp honey

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Pat scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Instruction 02

Blend lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside.

Instruction 03

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil and butter until hot and shimmering.

Instruction 04

Add scallops flat-side down and sear for 2 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Instruction 05

Arrange scallops on serving plates and spoon the prepared lime cilantro sauce generously over the top.

Instruction 06

Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Additional Tips

  1. Use dry-packed scallops for best searing results; avoid wet-packed varieties which release excess moisture.
  2. Lemon juice can be used as a substitute if limes are unavailable.
  3. For added heat, blend in a small amount of jalapeño or red chili flakes to the sauce.
  4. This dish pairs well with jasmine rice or oven-roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  5. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Essential Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Blender or food processor
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy (Greek yogurt or sour cream)
  • Contains shellfish (scallops)

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 260
  • Fat Content: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 6 grams
  • Protein Content: 20 grams