Updated 5th December 2026
If you’re keen to bring a touch of fine dining to your table but don’t want to compromise on health, perfectly seared Scallops with extra virgin olive oil is a real showstopper.
Read on to avoid over-cooking and delivering the perfect finish to this dish.
This recipe requires a high-quality olive oil instead of traditional butter basting in order to reduce saturated fat and increase monounsaturated fats.
Scallops With Extra Virgin Olive Oil Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or enough to coat bottom of pan)
Instructions
- If not done in advance, remove the small side muscle from each scallop. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add extra virgin olive oil to a large saute pan and heat on medium-high heat until the oil starts to shimmer but before it smokes. (It is important the pan is hot enough; otherwise, the scallops will not brown.)
- Carefully add scallops to the pan, making sure there is space between each scallop.
- Cook the scallops about 2 minutes, flip carefully to the other side and cook for another 2 minutes. They should have a nice golden crust and still be slightly translucent on the inside. Serve immediately.
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