Lemon Capers on Seared Scallops

Name: Lemon Capers on Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

I absolutely love the fresh, zesty flavor of this Lemon Capers on Seared Scallops recipe. The combination of bright lemon juice and briny capers perfectly enhances the sweetness of the scallops. When I sear them just right, they develop a beautiful golden crust while remaining tender and juicy inside. This dish is not only simple but also elegant enough to impress at any gathering. I often serve it over a bed of arugula or alongside roasted vegetables for a delightful meal any night of the week.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:21:27.931Z

When I first tried searing scallops, I was amazed at how quickly they cook and how flavorful they can be. It’s essential to start with fresh scallops and ensure your pan is hot enough to achieve that lovely caramelization. I remember the first time I added capers and lemon juice; the flavors created a bright, fantastic contrast to the scallops.

This Lemon Capers on Seared Scallops dish has become a staple in my kitchen. I love serving it when I have friends over because it's quick to prepare and looks stunning on the plate. A key tip I learned is to dry the scallops thoroughly before cooking to get that perfect sear!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bright tang of lemon cuts through the richness of the scallops.
Crispy capers add an unexpected texture that elevates the dish.
Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

1 pound large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Enjoy your beautifully plated scallops!

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the Scallops

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Lemon Caper Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, add the capers, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Serve

Place the scallops on plates and drizzle the lemon caper sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Savor the delightful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted asparagus.

→ How do I know when the scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque in the center and have a golden crust on the outside.

→ Can I make this in advance?

It's best served fresh; however, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving.