Description
Golden seared scallops meet a luscious, spicy Cajun cream sauce in this quick yet luxurious dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant date night, this easy recipe balances tender seafood with smoky heat and creamy richness. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it’s an irresistible blend of flavors for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas, healthy seafood meals, or restaurant-style food at home.
Ingredients
12 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning divided
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
1. Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add scallops, leaving space between them, and sear 2 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
4. Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the same skillet, and add minced garlic. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add remaining Cajun seasoning, then pour in heavy cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Return scallops to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, and cook 1 more minute.
7. Finish with lemon juice and parsley before serving.
Notes
Use “dry” scallops for the best sear and flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent separation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy dinner, quick recipe, scallops, seafood, cajun cream sauce, weeknight dinner