Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops

Name: Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops for a special dinner. The combination of sesame oil and ginger creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the tender scallops with a burst of flavor. I find that searing them in a hot pan brings out their natural sweetness while giving them a delightful golden crust. It's a quick and elegant dish that never fails to impress my guests, and I often serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T15:34:30.122Z

Preparing Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops brought back memories of my travels through coastal towns where seafood is a staple. I remember being captivated by the flavors and the quick cooking methods employed by local chefs. After several attempts, I discovered that perfecting the sear requires a highly heated pan to achieve that coveted crispy outer layer while keeping the inside succulent.

One of my favorite tips is to pat the scallops dry before cooking. This simple step ensures they caramelize beautifully and prevents unnecessary steaming. I love finishing them off with a hint of lime juice to brighten the flavors, making it a remarkable dish to share with loved ones.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The vibrant flavors of sesame and ginger elevate the dish to gourmet status.
Quick preparation makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The scallops' delightful texture contrasts beautifully with a crunchy vegetable side.

Perfecting the Searing Technique

Searing scallops can be tricky, but it’s essential for that golden crust. Start with a thoroughly preheated skillet; a drop of water should dance and evaporate immediately upon contact. You want the pan hot enough that the scallops sear swiftly, creating a caramelized exterior without overcooking the interior. If your scallops release too much moisture, you may need to crank up the heat or dry them with a paper towel before adding them to the pan.

When placing the scallops in the skillet, arrange them in a single layer with enough space in between. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming. Avoid the temptation to move them for the first couple of minutes; let them develop a crust. You will know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pan without sticking.

Balancing Flavors with Marinade Adjustments

The marinade for the scallops is a quick way to bring a burst of flavor, primarily through the combination of sesame oil and fresh ginger. If you’re looking to adjust the flavor profile, consider adding a splash of soy sauce for umami or a dash of chili flakes for heat. Both can enhance the overall dish without overwhelming the delicate scallops. Just be careful with extra salt, as the soy sauce will add its own saltiness.

I like to let my scallops marinate for a full 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate. You can experiment with adding other herbs like cilantro or a bit of sesame seeds for additional texture. Just keep the balance in mind—too many strong flavors can compete with the sweetness of the scallops.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

1 pound large sea scallops
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lime juice
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Scallops

Add the scallops to the marinade and let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Heat the Pan

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of sesame oil.

Sear the Scallops

Once the pan is hot, place the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately, pairing with your favorite side dish.

Pro Tips

For an even more intense flavor, consider adding a touch of soy sauce to the marinade. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough for that perfect sear.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

If large sea scallops are hard to find or not in season, consider using smaller bay scallops, but remember they will require less cooking time—about 1-2 minutes per side. For those who prefer a different protein, shrimp or firm tofu can also be marinated and sautéed similarly, giving a delicious twist while still working within the recipe's flavor framework.

For a gluten-free version, ensure that any soy sauce used is certified gluten-free or swap it for coconut aminos, which provide a similar flavor profile without gluten.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your sesame ginger scallops with a light, crunchy side like a cucumber salad enhances the overall dining experience. The fresh, crisp vegetables pair beautifully with the rich, caramelized flavors of the scallops. I often add a drizzle of sesame dressing over the salad, echoing the flavors of the dish for a cohesive meal.

Another excellent pairing is steamed asparagus or green beans, which can be quickly prepared alongside the scallops. Just blanch them in salted water for 2-3 minutes before draining and tossing with a touch of sesame oil and lemon juice to complement the main dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

→ What can I serve with sesame ginger scallops?

They pair well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a fresh contrast.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked properly?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked, typically taking about 2-3 minutes per side.

→ Can I substitute the sesame oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.