These seared scallops are a treat! With a crispy outside and tender inside, they get a boost from a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.
I love making this dish when I want to impress my friends. It’s quick to prepare, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds—seriously, you’ll be a seafood superstar!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: Fresh sea scallops are key for this dish. If you can’t find them, you may try using bay scallops. They are smaller but still tasty. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but if you want a higher smoke point, you can use avocado oil. It works well for searing.
Cajun Seasoning: To control the spice level, adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning. If you don’t have this on hand, a mix of paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder can be a good substitute.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less creamy. You could also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version!
How Do You Get Perfectly Searing Scallops?
Searing scallops can be tricky, but the key is all about the heat and moisture. Here’s how to achieve that beautiful golden crust:
- Make sure your scallops are *very* dry before cooking. Moisture prevents them from getting that nice sear.
- Use a hot skillet! Heat the oil until it shimmers, but be careful not to smoke it.
- Give scallops space in the pan. If they touch, they’ll steam instead of searing.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. This truly makes a difference!
- Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes on each side. Resist the urge to flip them too soon!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a stunning dish to share with friends and family. Enjoy!
Seared Scallops With Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and elegant meal you can whip up in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scallops:
Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear! Once dry, season both sides of the scallops lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Scallops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the scallops to the pan, making sure they don’t touch each other. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on one side until you see a beautiful golden crust forming.
3. Flip and Cook Further:
Gently flip the scallops using tongs and add the butter to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside, covering them loosely to keep warm.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 1-2 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Add the Spices:
Now, stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices and release their wonderful aromas.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating that rich and creamy texture.
7. Add Brightness:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Give it a good mix, and then taste! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Combine and Warm:
Carefully return the seared scallops to the skillet to warm through and coat with the creamy sauce.
9. Plate and Garnish:
Now it’s time to plate! Arrange the scallops beautifully on a dish and spoon the creamy spicy Cajun sauce over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that lovely touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately with your choice of delicious sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your elegant and flavorful Seared Scallops with Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce!
FAQ for Seared Scallops With Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream. Keep in mind that while half-and-half will yield a lighter texture, coconut cream will add a slight coconut flavor to your sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove to avoid overcooking the scallops. You may need to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce.
What Sides Go Well with This Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. For a lighter option, try serving it with a fresh salad or sautéed greens. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over any of these sides!
