Blackened Scallops with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce

Blackened Scallops with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce

Ingredients

For the scallops:

• 1 lb (450 g) large sea scallops
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the creamy sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the scallops
   • Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels.
   • Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
   • Toss scallops with olive oil and coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
2. Sear the scallops
   • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add melted butter.
   • Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply browned and slightly charred.
   • Remove and keep warm.
3. Make the sauce
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
   • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
   • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan.
   • Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Add lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve
   • Arrange scallops on a plate or bowl.
   • Serve with the creamy garlic herb sauce for dipping.
   • Garnish with extra parsley and lemon zest.

⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cook Time: 10 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4

These scallops pair wonderfully with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.