Mediterranean Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce
This dish brings together the delicate sweetness of sea scallops with a bright, tangy lime-cilantro sauce. The scallops are seared until golden and caramelized on the outside while staying tender inside. The sauce, made with fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, adds a refreshing Mediterranean flair that cuts through the richness. It’s a quick, elegant recipe that works as an appetizer, light lunch, or centerpiece for dinner served with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the scallops:
1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce:
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 tbsp lime zest
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional (for creamier texture and balance):
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp honey
Pinch of crushed red pepper
Instructions
Prepare the scallops
Pat scallops very dry with paper towels to help them sear properly.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sear the scallops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan).
Sear for 2–3 minutes per side without moving them until golden brown and caramelized.
In the last minute, add butter to the pan and spoon over the scallops as they finish cooking.
Remove scallops from the pan and keep warm.
Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, and garlic.
If desired, whisk in yogurt or sour cream for creaminess, mayo for richness, honey for sweetness, and crushed red pepper for gentle heat. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble and serve
Place seared scallops on a platter or serving plates.
Drizzle with the zesty lime cilantro sauce, leaving some on the side for dipping.
Serve immediately with couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
Pat scallops dry before searing for best browning.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — work in batches if needed.
Cook quickly (2–3 minutes per side) to keep them tender.
Adjust lime and garlic levels in the sauce to taste.
Variations
Make it creamy with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Add spice with crushed red pepper or chili oil.
Blend lime with lemon or orange for a citrus mix.
Stir in mint or parsley for a herbier twist.
Sweeten with honey for balance.
Pair with steak for a surf & turf version.
Q&A
Q: How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?
A: They should be golden on the outside and just opaque in the center. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate. Stir before serving.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: Mediterranean rice, couscous, roasted veggies, or even a simple arugula salad.
Q: Can I use frozen scallops?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for the best sear.
Nutrition
(per serving, 4 servings)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: ~410mg
(Values are approximate and will vary depending on sauce additions like yogurt or honey.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce is a fast, vibrant dish that combines rich seared scallops with a refreshing citrus-herb sauce. It feels elegant enough for a dinner party yet quick enough for a weeknight meal. With its balance of tender scallops and zesty Mediterranean flavors, it’s a recipe that turns a simple seafood dish into something memorable.