Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa

Name: Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh sea scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced; Juice of 1 lime; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Discoveries

I absolutely love whipping up dishes that impress everyone at the dinner table, and Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa is one of my favorites! This recipe is quick yet elegant, combining the delicate flavor of the scallops with the vibrant zest of fresh mango salsa. I enjoy preparing it for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner, making it versatile and perfect for any meal. The best part? It takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, allowing for more time to relish the company of my loved ones.

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:17:27.940Z

When I first tried making scallops, I was intimidated by how to get the perfect sear. Through trial and error, I realized that a hot and dry pan is the key to achieving that wonderful golden crust. Using high-quality sea scallops made a noticeable difference, enhancing the overall dish. Once I got the hang of it, I started experimenting with different salsas, and the mango pairing quickly became a favorite.

This recipe is not only about taste; it’s an explosion of colors too. I often serve it to guests, and the fresh mango salsa always elicits compliments. It compliments the scallops beautifully, balancing their richness with tropical sweetness and acidity. Don’t forget to season your scallops well; it really elevates the flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly seared scallops with a crispy exterior and tender interior
Refreshing mango salsa adds a tropical twist
Quick preparation makes it ideal for weeknight dining
Elegant presentation suitable for special occasions

Understanding Scallops

Seared scallops are truly a delicacy, but there are some key factors to consider when selecting them. Fresh, dry-packed sea scallops should be your choice; they have a firmer texture and better flavor than wet scallops, which often contain added preservatives. When buying scallops, look for a creamy white color and a slightly sweet scent, avoiding any that have an ammonia smell or a slimy texture.

For the best results, it’s crucial to ensure the scallops are thoroughly dry before searing. Pat them with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step allows for a truly golden crust to form. Searing them in a hot pan with enough olive oil helps achieve that beautiful caramel color—aim for a heat level where the oil is shimmering but not smoking.

Crafting the Mango Salsa

The mango salsa is not just a topping; it plays a pivotal role in balancing the richness of the scallops. When choosing a mango, opt for one that gives slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma. This ensures it will be ripe and perfectly sweet for your salsa. For best results, allow the salsa to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving; this enables the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more vibrant taste.

If you want to adjust the spiciness of your salsa, consider using a less spicy pepper, like a bell pepper, or leave the jalapeño seeds in for extra heat. You can also experiment by adding other ingredients, such as diced avocado or a splash of coconut milk, to give your salsa a creamier texture. Just remember, balance is key—each component should complement the other.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful dish!

For the Seared Scallops

1 pound fresh sea scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious outcome!

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Sear the Scallops

Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat until shimmering. Add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Serve

Plate the seared scallops and top with the fresh mango salsa. Enjoy immediately while they're hot!

Your dish is now ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

Make sure your pan is hot before adding the scallops to achieve a perfect sear. Also, avoid moving the scallops around too much while cooking for the best crust.

Perfecting Your Searing Technique

To achieve the perfect sear, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This can lead to steaming instead of searing, affecting the texture. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook the scallops in batches. Keep your heat at medium-high to high for rapid cooking—just enough to create that crisp outer layer without overcooking the delicate scallop inside.

Visual cues are critical; look for golden edges forming around the scallops to know they are ready to flip. Typically, about 2-3 minutes per side is sufficient. If you're unsure, a perfectly cooked scallop should be opaque in the center and slightly springy to the touch.

Serving and Enjoying

When plating, consider a garnishing touch, such as additional lime wedges or a sprig of cilantro for visual appeal. The contrast of the bright mango salsa against the golden scallops creates an appealing dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. Pair it with a light, crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the sweetness of the mango and the subtle flavors of the scallops.

For a hearty meal, consider serving the scallops and salsa over a bed of quinoa or with a side of sautéed vegetables. This not only rounds out your meal but also adds great nutritional value. Leftover salsa can also be stored in the fridge for up to two days, perfect for a quick topping on grilled chicken or fish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before searing.

→ What can I substitute for mango?

You can use diced pineapple or kiwi for a similar tropical flavor.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a golden crust. Overcooking can make them tough.

→ Can I prepare the salsa in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead of time; just keep it refrigerated until ready to use.