Sesame Honey Scallops

Sesame Honey Scallops

These Sesame Honey Scallops are a quick and tasty seafood recipe that pairs the scallops' sweetness with the nuttiness of sesame seeds and the honey's sweetness. These scallops are seared quickly, giving a golden crust on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, then glazed with a honey sesame sauce that perfectly marries the sweetness and savory flavors of the dish.

Scallops are one of the easiest seafood dishes to make at home, making them a great option for a special meal or a weeknight meal. This recipe only takes a few minutes to cook, and with not many ingredients, it makes it a great option to impress. The honey adds a nice sweetness, while the sesame adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the delicate flavor of the scallops beautifully.

Another thing that makes this recipe so popular is its versatility. This recipe makes a great appetizer, a nice addition to a bowl of rice, or a complete meal when served with vegetables. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe makes for a restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes.

Why This Sesame Honey Scallops Recipe Works

The scallops have a naturally mild, sweet taste that pairs well with any simple sauce or glaze. The honey in this recipe will only make the scallops taste sweeter, while the sesame seeds will give them a nutty flavor that balances their taste.

The cooking method is also important in this recipe. The best way to cook scallops is to quickly sear them in a hot pan, giving them a nice golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside nice and buttery. This way, the scallops will cook quickly and avoid becoming tough or rubbery. The scallops also need to be dried properly to achieve the nice golden-brown crust that will make this recipe visually appealing and delicious.

Try This Recipe with Sizzlefish Scallops

This recipe is best made with large sea scallops, as they will yield a nice golden-brown sear and remain tender when cooked correctly. Large sea scallops will also cook evenly and offer the best texture for dishes that require a quick sear in a pan.

At Sizzlefish, Wild Atlantic Sea Scallops are individually flash-frozen to ensure the best possible taste, texture, and freshness. High-quality sea scallops should have a clean, ocean-fresh taste and a firm texture so that they'll caramelize nicely when seared.

When buying scallops for this recipe, look for large or “U10” sea scallops, if possible, as they will sear the best and yield the best caramelized crust.

Sesame Honey Scallops Nutrition Highlights

Sea scallops are a nutrient-rich food that’s high in protein and low in calories and fat. A serving of sea scallops is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus, which support metabolism, the immune system, and bone health.

Scallops are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. Because they are lean and rich in protein, scallops are a satisfying ingredient that can help keep you full while contributing to a balanced diet.

With simple ingredients like honey, sesame, and vegetables, this dish is a tasty, nutritious meal that is easy to prepare.

Sesame Honey Scallops Serving Suggestions

Sesame Honey Scallops are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. The flavor combination of this recipe works particularly well with vegetables, rice, and salads.

Try these Sesame Honey Scallops with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice

• Stir-fried Bok Choy or broccoli

• Garlic green beans

• Asian-style cucumber salad

• Noodles or rice bowls with veggies

For a light meal, serve the Sesame Honey Scallops on a fresh salad with a sesame vinaigrette.

Storing and Reheating Sesame Honey Scallops

Storing

• Let the scallops completely cool before storing.

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container.

• Refrigerate for up to 2 days. 

• Since scallops are cooked quickly and best eaten fresh, it is best to eat leftovers as soon as possible.

Reheating

• Stovetop (Best Method): Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of oil or butter.

• Oven: Place in a baking dish at 275°F for 8-10 minutes.

• It's not advised to reheat scallops in the microwave, as this can make them tough or rubbery.

FAQs for Sesame Honey Scallops

Q: How long should scallops be cooked?

A: Scallops cook very quickly, and the cooking time will depend on the size of the scallops. Normally, scallops will cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning opaque and lightly golden on the outside.

Q: How do I get a good sear on scallops?

A: To get a nice sear, make sure the scallops are completely dry with paper towels. Cook them in a hot pan with some oil and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

A: Yes, thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Q: What type of sesame should I use for this recipe?

A: White and black sesame seeds will both work well for this recipe. White sesame seeds will lend the dish a slightly nutty flavor, while black sesame seeds will give a slightly stronger flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: The sauce can be made in advance, but the scallops should be cooked just before serving for the best texture and flavor.