Description
A quick and elegant dish featuring pan-seared large scallops with a golden crust, served over creamy mashed potatoes and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect for a delightful dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 lb large scallops
Cooking Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Side
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
Instructions
- Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly. Season both sides liberally with salt and pepper, and if desired, sprinkle with smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Heat Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely and the mixture to heat until it begins to shimmer but not smoke.
- Sear Scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd them for even searing. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a beautiful golden crust forms. Resist moving them too much to achieve a perfect sear.
- Plate the Dish: Transfer the seared scallops and any pan juices onto a serving plate over a bed of warm mashed potatoes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the scallops and drizzle remaining pan juices on top to enhance flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this elegant and comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, make sure scallops are very dry before seasoning and searing.
- If using frozen scallops, thaw completely and pat dry.
- Mashed potatoes can be homemade or store-bought, but should be warm when serving.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky depth to the scallops.
- Use a heavy skillet, such as cast iron, for optimal searing.
