The secret to getting a beautiful brown sear is to pat the scallops dry, sear them in a hot skillet, and move them only to turn them over.
How to Make It
Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle scallops with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops; cook 3 minutes on each side. Remove scallops from pan; keep warm. Add orange juice to pan; cook 2 minutes. Add butter, stirring to melt.
Heat remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add fennel slices and onion; sauté 3 minutes. Stir in fennel fronds, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and orange slices. Serve immediately.
Serve with: Whole Wheat Bread with Caper-Mint Dipping Sauce
Choice Ingredient
Large sea scallops are great for a fast and filling protein source any night of the week. They can be seared or sautéed and then added to salads and pastas or served solo as an entrée. Their mild taste and universal appeal make them a good host for complex flavors.
Cooking Light Fresh Food Fast Weeknight Meals