Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops

Name: Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh scallops; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops, not only for their elegant presentation but also for the burst of flavors they deliver. The sweet and tangy ginger sauce beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a delightful dish in just minutes. With each bite, the rich umami from the sesame adds depth, transforming a simple meal into a gourmet experience. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my repertoire, perfect for impressing guests or treating myself to a special dinner.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-22T15:30:28.769Z

When I first experimented with seared scallops, I was amazed at how quickly they cook and how easily they develop a beautiful caramelized crust. This Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops recipe became a staple in my kitchen after I discovered the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The ginger not only adds a zesty kick to the dish but also enhances the natural flavors of the scallops.

As I refined this dish, I realized the importance of not overcooking the scallops. They should be left with a buttery center, so I usually remove them from the heat as soon as they turn golden brown. I love to serve them immediately over a bed of steamed vegetables or rice for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet simple.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The irresistible flavor of sesame and ginger melds perfectly with the scallops.
Quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners.
Elegant presentation that impresses guests at any gathering.

Mastering the Scallops

The secret to perfectly cooked scallops lies in drying them thoroughly before seasoning. Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear, resulting in a steamed texture rather than a beautifully caramelized one. Use a paper towel to pat them dry completely, ensuring they have a slight tackiness to hold onto the seasonings. When seasoned, let them rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, which can significantly enhance the overall taste.

When it comes to searing, timing is everything. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it feels hot but not smoking—a drop of water should sizzle rapidly. If you overcrowd the pan, the scallops will steam instead of sear, so ensure there's enough space. You'll know they're cooked perfectly when they develop a golden crust and are opaque in the center; this typically takes about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Crafting the Ginger Sauce

The ginger sauce elevates the dish by adding depth and balancing the sweetness of the scallops. Fresh ginger is crucial here, as it has a vibrant punch compared to dried ginger. Mince it as finely as possible to ensure it infuses well with the sauce. The honey not only enhances sweetness but also aids in creating a glaze that clings to the scallops, making every bite flavorful.

Don't hesitate to adjust the soy sauce and honey levels according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of chili flake to the mixture for a hint of heat. Remember to mix the sauce thoroughly to combine all flavors; the goal is a harmonious blend that complements rather than overpowers the scallops.

Serving and Storage Tips

For an elegant presentation, serve the scallops over a bed of sautéed greens or alongside steamed vegetables. This not only adds color but also gives a nutritious boost. Garnishing with chopped green onions and sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and color that makes the dish visually appealing. Serve immediately after plating for the best taste and texture, as scallops can lose their tenderness when reheated.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the sauce and marinate the scallops up to an hour in advance. However, for optimal flavor, cook and serve scallops fresh, as they can become rubbery upon reheating. If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat gently on low heat to avoid toughening.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh scallops
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops:

Prepare Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, minced ginger, honey, and minced garlic.

Sear the Scallops

Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Glaze with Sauce

Pour the ginger sauce over the scallops in the last minute of cooking, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, then serve immediately.

Enjoy your Sesame Ginger Seared Scallops with a side of vegetables or rice!

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure to use dry scallops that haven’t been soaked in brine, as they will sear better and yield a more caramelized crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh scallops are hard to find or too pricey, shrimp might be a suitable alternative. Opt for large shrimp, and adjust the cooking time to about 1-2 minutes per side. Additionally, you can replace sesame oil with a neutral oil, like canola, if you prefer a milder flavor, but be aware that it won't give the same nutty aroma.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options maintain a similar umami kick without the gluten, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe serves approximately 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main dish; thus, it is easily scalable. When doubling the recipe, make sure to sear the scallops in batches to maintain that perfect golden crust. Overcrowding the pan can drastically affect the texture, leading to steaming rather than searing.

Also, consider adjusting the sauce quantity based on your preference; if you love a saucy dish, use more sauce for glazing. Just ensure to keep the same ratio of soy sauce to honey and ginger for balanced flavors throughout the scaled-up version.

Variations on the Dish

To add an Asian twist, consider garnishing with a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of fried shallots for added texture and flavor. You might also explore mixing in other aromatics such as lemongrass or cilantro in the sauce to create a different flavor profile that pairs well with seafood.

If you're in the mood for a more substantial meal, serve your scallops over a bed of quinoa or rice, soaking up the delightful ginger sauce. Adding sautéed bell peppers or snap peas can turn this elegant dish into a vibrant stir-fry that’s just as delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to achieve the best searing results.

→ What can I serve with these scallops?

These scallops pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

→ How can I tell when scallops are cooked properly?

Scallops are perfectly cooked when they are opaque and have a golden crust, typically taking 2-3 minutes per side.

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.