Pan-Seared Scallops with Creamy Pesto Sauce: Elegant, Easy & Ready in Minutes

Looking to impress with minimal effort? Pan-seared scallops with creamy pesto sauce are elegant, packed with flavor, and ready in less than 30 minutes. This dish pairs the sweet, delicate taste of scallops with the rich, herby depth of pesto in a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re planning a date night or a fancy dinner at home, this recipe makes it simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick: Ready in under 25 minutes
• Restaurant-quality at home
• Perfect sear, every time
• Fresh herbs and clean ingredients
• Great for keto & low-carb diets

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scallops:

• 1 lb sea scallops (dry-packed preferred)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)

How to Make Pan-Seared Scallops with Creamy Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

• Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Moisture prevents a good sear.
• Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

• Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan over medium-high heat.
• Add olive oil and let it shimmer.
• Place the scallops in the pan, spacing them out.
• Cook 2–2.5 minutes per side. Don’t move them while searing!
• Remove scallops and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Pesto Cream Sauce

• In the same pan, lower the heat to medium.
• Add cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.
• Stir in pesto and Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
• Add lemon juice if using, and stir well.

Step 4: Plate & Serve

• Spoon pesto sauce onto each plate.
• Top with scallops.
• Optional garnish: fresh basil, lemon zest, or extra cheese.

Homemade Pesto Recipe (Quick Version)

Want to make your pesto? Here’s a fast, simple one:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Pinch of salt
  Blend everything until smooth!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve scallops over linguine or angel hair pasta tossed in pesto sauce
• Great with steamed asparagus, zucchini ribbons, or garlic spinach
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce

Wine Pairing Tips

• A dry white wine like Chablis, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly
• For a bubbly option, try Prosecco
• Avoid overly oaky wines, which overpower the pesto

Flavor Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice
• Use kale or arugula instead of basil for a pesto twist
• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version
• Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pine nuts for crunch

Common Questions (Voice Search Optimized)

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry very well before cooking.

How do I reheat scallops with pesto sauce?
Gently reheat scallops in a pan over low heat with a spoonful of sauce. Don’t microwave!

Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, this is naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the pesto cream sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Choose a high-quality refrigerated pesto for the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Seared Scallops

• Use a heavy pan (cast iron works best)
• Dry scallops completely to avoid steaming
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Let the oil get hot before adding the scallops
• Leave them alone! No flipping until seared

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: ~310
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 5g
• Fat: 24g
• Omega-3s: Excellent source

Final Thoughts

Pan-seared scallops with creamy pesto sauce deliver gourmet flavor with simple steps. Elegant enough for entertaining, fast enough for weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish never fails.

Ready to wow your dinner table?

Try it out and tag us with your photos! #PestoScallops

Looking for more seafood recipes? Stay tuned for:

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill
• Grilled Lobster Tails with Herbed Butter