Zesty Scallops with Jalapeño Butter

Name: Zesty Scallops with Jalapeño Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat); 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

I absolutely love preparing Zesty Scallops with Jalapeño Butter, as it encapsulates the vibrant flavors of the sea with a spicy twist. The sweetness of the scallops beautifully contrasts with the creamy, zesty jalapeño butter, creating an unforgettable dish. It's quick to make, yet feels elegant enough for special occasions or dinner guests. I've found that using fresh scallops makes all the difference, enhancing both flavor and texture, and they just melt in your mouth when cooked properly.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:25:27.996Z

During one of our weekend culinary adventures, I decided to spice things up by experimenting with scallops. I love how quickly they cook, and they’re naturally sweet. By making a simple jalapeño butter, I introduced a creamy, zesty kick that just brightens everything up. It was a huge hit with my family!

My secret is to not overcook the scallops; just a couple of minutes on each side until they turn golden is all you need. The crispy edges combined with the creamy butter take this dish to a whole new level. Trust me, it’s a restaurant-quality meal made right at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet scallops balanced with spicy kick from jalapeño
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
Elegant enough for special occasions or entertaining guests

Understanding Scallops

Choosing the right scallops is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in this dish. Fresh, wild-caught sea scallops are preferred for their natural sweetness and firm texture. Look for scallops that are slightly moist and fragrant of the sea, without any strong fishy smell. Avoid scallops that are sitting in a milky liquid, as these are often treated with a chemical solution that affects their taste and texture, making them tougher when cooked.

Preparation plays a significant role in the outcome of scallops. Ensure they are brought to room temperature before cooking; this helps them sear beautifully and prevents sticking. When patting them dry, use paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can hinder the searing process and lead to steaming instead. You want to achieve that perfect golden crust, which adds flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

Perfecting the Jalapeño Butter

The jalapeño butter is a star component that complements the scallops beautifully. The key to a successful jalapeño butter is balancing the flavors; the fresh lime juice brightens the richness of the butter while the jalapeño adds a punch of heat. For a milder version, be sure to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. If you want to amp up the heat, consider using a second jalapeño or experimenting with a spicier variety, such as serrano.

To enhance the jalapeño butter even further, consider adding additional herbs such as chopped chives or green onions for a fresh twist. If you're short on fresh ingredients, you can substitute jarred jalapeños, but be mindful of their saltiness. After mixing, let the butter sit at room temperature or refrigerate it; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, using a warm spoon to scoop the butter will give you a glossy, luxurious presentation.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

12 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Jalapeño Butter

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Mix and match the ingredients based on your spice tolerance and enjoy this dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapeño Butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix until well combined, cover, and set aside.

Cook the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Once the scallops are ready, remove them from the skillet. Plate them and top with a generous dollop of jalapeño butter. Enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or some jasmine rice.

Pro Tips

Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the scallops
this will help achieve a nice golden sear.

Serving Suggestions

To present your zesty scallops elegantly, serve them atop a bed of cilantro-lime rice or alongside roasted vegetables. The mildness of these sides will contrast nicely with the spiciness of the jalapeño butter. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh lime zest over the scallops just before serving for an extra burst of citrus that brightens the dish.

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, which complements the scallops' sweetness while balancing the heat of the jalapeños. Additionally, arranging your scallops in a circle around a small bowl of extra jalapeño butter creates an eye-catching presentation, making it feel like a restaurant-quality meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a special occasion, you can prepare the jalapeño butter a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight. Just remember to bring the butter to room temperature before using it, as chilled butter can be difficult to spread atop the hot scallops.

It's best to cook the scallops just before serving to maintain their tender texture. However, if you need to reheat them, do so gently in a warm skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. This will keep them soft and juicy rather than rubbery, ensuring your dish remains delightful and flavorful even after a quick reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to achieve proper searing.

→ How do I prevent scallops from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-seasoned skillet or a non-stick pan, and make sure the oil is hot before adding the scallops.

→ What can I substitute for jalapeño?

If you prefer less heat, you can use a milder pepper like green bell pepper or omit it altogether.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.