Seared Scallops with Zucchini Noodles

Name: Seared Scallops with Zucchini Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 4 large sea scallops; 2 medium zucchini; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I love making seared scallops with zucchini noodles for a quick yet impressive dinner. The combination of tender scallops and fresh, lightly sautéed zucchini creates a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, I can have a restaurant-worthy meal ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s one of my go-to recipes for impressing guests or simply treating myself to something special on a weeknight.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:34:27.806Z

When I first tried searing scallops, I was amazed by how easy it was to create such a luxurious dish. The key is to get a good sear on the scallops, which locks in their moisture and flavor. I recommend using a stainless steel skillet for the best results—cast iron can be too heavy for delicate scallops.

Combining scallops with zucchini noodles is my favorite way to keep the dish light. Zucchini adds a refreshing texture, and I love how it pairs with the rich scallops. An extra tip: don’t overcook the zucchini; it should be tender but still have a little crunch for contrast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly seared scallops that are golden on the outside and tender on the inside
Zucchini noodles provide a light, healthy alternative to pasta
Quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Choosing the Right Scallops

When selecting scallops, look for large sea scallops that are fresh and plump. They should have a slight sheen and be slightly translucent, indicating they're freshly caught. Avoid scallops that have a strong fishy smell, as this may indicate they're not fresh. If you're unsure, ask your fishmonger for recommendations on the best options available.

For this recipe, it's essential to dry the scallops thoroughly with paper towels before searing them. Patting them dry removes excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. If they’re too wet, they may steam in the pan instead of searing, leading to a less desirable texture.

Mastering the Zucchini Noodles

When spiralizing zucchini, aim for uniform thickness; this ensures even cooking. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can create ribbons that will work just as well for this dish. However, they may cook slightly differently, so be sure to watch for doneness closely.

For a more flavorful zucchini noodle, consider briefly salting the spiralized zucchini and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This technique removes excess moisture and helps enhance the flavor. Give it a quick rinse and pat dry before sautéing to avoid sogginess.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delightful seared scallops dish:

Ingredients

4 large sea scallops
2 medium zucchini
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to cook, as the process is quick!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your seared scallops with zucchini noodles:

Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

Using a spiralizer, create noodles from the zucchini. Set aside after spiralizing.

Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Cook the Zucchini Noodles

In the same skillet, add the zucchini noodles after removing the scallops. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Squeeze lemon juice over the noodles.

Serve

Plate the zucchini noodles and arrange the seared scallops on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve right after plating!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the zucchini noodles while cooking for a subtle kick.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to add more vegetables to the zucchini noodles for added nutrition. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach can complement the dish beautifully. Simply toss in these vegetables during the last minute of cooking the noodles, allowing them to soften slightly while maintaining their vibrant color.

For a hint of spice, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the scallops just before serving. This adds a nice kick that contrasts well with the sweetness of the scallops and the freshness of the zucchini.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the seared scallops and zucchini noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The scallops can stay fresh for up to two days, while the noodles are best consumed within 24 hours to maintain their texture.

To reheat, warm the scallops gently in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until just heated through. For the zucchini noodles, a quick stir-fry with a little olive oil can revitalize them. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can lead to mushiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute scallops with another seafood?

Yes, shrimp or fish fillets can work as great alternatives in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Both scallops and zucchini noodles are inherently gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the zucchini noodles in advance?

Yes, but try to use them within a few hours of preparation to maintain their freshness.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

A light green salad or grilled asparagus would pair beautifully with this dish.