Lemon Thyme Scallops with Garlic

Name: Lemon Thyme Scallops with Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges; Additional thyme sprigs

Highlighted under: Seasonal Dish Recipes

I absolutely love making Lemon Thyme Scallops with Garlic for a quick yet elegant meal. The combination of fresh lemon juice, fragrant thyme, and buttery garlic creates a dish that's bright, flavorful, and indulgent. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating myself after a long day. Cooking scallops is simpler than you might think, and when they’re seared to perfection, the result is nothing short of spectacular. I appreciate how this dish brings together fresh ingredients that are both healthy and delicious, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:38:27.926Z

When I first attempted to cook scallops, I was intimidated by their delicate nature. However, after a few tries, I discovered that the secret lies in searing them just right. The caramelization that happens during high heat adds a beautiful depth of flavor, which I enhance with my favorite herbs and garlic. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

I also love experimenting with the seasoning. The combination of lemon and thyme brings a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the scallops wonderfully. Pairing them with a side of veggies or pasta turns this dish into a fantastic, well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor from fresh lemon and thyme
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress guests

Perfectly Searing the Scallops

Searing scallops can seem intimidating, but the key is to use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. For this recipe, I recommend using a heavy skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, as they retain heat well. Ensure that the oil is shimmering but not smoking before adding the scallops. This high temperature helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

One common mistake is to move the scallops too soon. It's essential to let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side. You'll know they're ready to flip when they naturally release from the pan and have developed a golden-brown crust. If they stick, they likely need more time. Trust the process!

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Thyme

Garlic and thyme not only enhance the flavor of the scallops but also contribute a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish. When adding minced garlic to the pan, it's crucial to sauté it for only a minute to prevent burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that overshadows the delicate sweetness of the scallops. Look for it to turn slightly golden and fragrant before moving on to the next step.

Thyme adds a fresh herbal note that complements the citrus beautifully. If you don't have fresh thyme, you can substitute it with dried thyme, but adjust the amount to about one teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated. The fresh qualities of thyme make a significant difference in balancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

12 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Lemon wedges
Additional thyme sprigs

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, add the scallops.

Sear the Scallops

Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, until they are golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Add Garlic and Herbs

Add the minced garlic, thyme, lemon juice, and zest to the pan. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the scallops with the sauce from the pan, garnishing with lemon wedges and extra thyme if desired.

For a richer flavor, you can deglaze the pan with white wine after searing the scallops.

Pro Tips

Ensure your scallops are well-dried before cooking to achieve that perfect sear. Don't overcrowd the pan to maintain the right temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Thyme Scallops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a more traditional approach, serve them atop a bed of creamy risotto or with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The creaminess of these dishes contrasts nicely with the bright flavor of the scallops. Alternatively, a fresh arugula salad lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon zest can add a refreshing touch.

For a complete meal, consider adding seasonal vegetables, such as sautéed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts, to your plates. These veggies not only provide nutrition but also add color and crunch that complements the tender scallops.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare ahead, you can clean and season the scallops a few hours in advance. However, for optimal freshness and texture, I recommend cooking them right before serving. If you have leftovers, store cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain their delicate texture—high heat can make them rubbery.

To freeze scallops, it’s best to do so before cooking. Flash freeze the cleaned scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen solid. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to use, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the recipe as usual for a delicious meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

They pair wonderfully with sautéed vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and have a golden crust on both sides.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

It's best to cook scallops right before serving for the best texture. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time.