Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of perfectly seared scallops and the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of textures and the zesty lemon butter sauce elevate this meal, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Scallops:
- For the Brussels Sprouts:
- For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- How to Make Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Step 1: Sear the Scallops
- Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
- Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
- How to Serve Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Plating Ideas
- Accompaniments
- Serving Style
- How to Perfect Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Reheating Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to season seared scallops?
- Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
- How do I know when my scallops are done cooking?
- What side dishes pair well with seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The pairing of seared scallops with roasted Brussels sprouts creates an exciting blend of tastes that will impress any palate.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy Delight: Both scallops and Brussels sprouts offer numerous health benefits, including high protein content and essential vitamins.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite side dishes like quinoa or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Elegant Presentation: With minimal effort, you can create an elegant dish that looks stunning on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or grill
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or grill: Allows for even cooking of scallops, ensuring they are perfectly seared and flavorful.
- Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts to achieve that delicious caramelization.
- Saucepan: Used to create the lemon butter sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Sear the Scallops
Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
1. Place the seasoned scallops in the hot skillet.
2. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
While the scallops are searing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
1. In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
1. Once melted, whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook while stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble Your Dish
On a serving platter, arrange the roasted Brussels sprouts first.
1. Top them with seared scallops.
2. Drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts!
How to Serve Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Serving your seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts can elevate the dining experience, making it both visually appealing and delicious. Here are some great ideas to enhance your presentation and flavor combinations.
Plating Ideas
- Layered Presentation: Arrange the Brussels sprouts on the bottom with scallops stacked on top for a beautiful tower effect.
- Sauce Drizzle: Use a spoon to drizzle the lemon butter sauce artistically around the plate for added flair.
Accompaniments
- Citrus Wedges: Serve with lemon or lime wedges for guests to squeeze fresh juice over their dish.
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Serving Style
- Individual Plates: Serve each portion on individual plates for a more formal presentation.
- Family Style: Offer a large platter with all ingredients, allowing guests to serve themselves.
How to Perfect Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Achieving the perfect sear on scallops and roasting Brussels sprouts just right requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips.
- Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season both the scallops and Brussels sprouts adequately. This enhances their natural flavors.
- High Heat Cooking: Sear scallops on medium-high heat for that golden crust without overcooking.
- Even Sizing: Cut Brussels sprouts into uniform halves so they roast evenly and reach the desired tenderness.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow scallops to rest briefly after cooking; this helps retain moisture for a juicy bite.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality butter for an enriched flavor in your lemon butter sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Pairing side dishes with seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with garlic enhances the meal’s protein content while adding texture.
- Lemon Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf flavored with lemon zest complements the dish’s citrus notes beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of scallops.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors while offering a comforting side.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and nutrients, pairing well with both main components.
- Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: A lower-carb alternative, mashed cauliflower offers creaminess without overpowering other flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the scallops well enough can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use a good amount of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for optimal taste.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many scallops in the pan at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook them in batches if necessary to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Skipping the preheat: Failing to preheat your skillet or grill sufficiently may result in uneven cooking. Make sure it’s hot before adding the scallops for perfect searing.
- Inconsistent Brussels sprouts size: Cutting Brussels sprouts into uneven sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Halve them uniformly for consistent tenderness.
- Ignoring timing: Cooking scallops for too long can make them tough. Keep an eye on them and aim for 2-3 minutes per side for a tender finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 2 days for best flavor and texture.
Freezing Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1 minute), checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts.
What is the best way to season seared scallops?
The best way to season seared scallops is with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This combination enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering them.
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve the best sear.
How do I know when my scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they turn opaque and have a golden-brown crust on both sides. They should be firm yet slightly springy to the touch.
What side dishes pair well with seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts?
Seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement their flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This dish of seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding spices or serving it with different sides based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal!
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Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts, a dish that perfectly melds the tender sweetness of scallops with the earthy richness of Brussels sprouts. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also elevates your dining experience with its elegant presentation and zesty lemon butter sauce. Ideal for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners, this flavorful meal promises to impress seafood enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters alike. Get ready to savor a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Sear the Scallops: Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble: On a platter, layer roasted Brussels sprouts and top with seared scallops. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg