If you love a dish that feels both elegant and effortlessly fresh, then you are going to adore this Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of tender, perfectly seared scallops paired with a zesty, herbaceous dressing that bursts with bright citrus and briny depth from capers. Every bite offers a harmonious interplay of flavors that feels like a celebration on your plate, making it a standout recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft this vibrant dish, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding flavor, texture, or that stunning pop of color that makes the dish irresistible.
- Sea scallops (1 lb): Pat dry to ensure a beautiful golden sear without steaming.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons plus more for searing): Provides a silky richness and helps achieve the perfect crust on the scallops.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances natural flavors and seasoning balance.
- Fresh orange juice (1/4 cup): Adds a bright, tangy sweetness that wakes up the palate.
- Orange zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies citrus notes with delicate oils and aroma.
- Capers (2 tablespoons, drained): Delivers a briny, piquant kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Chopped fresh basil (2 tablespoons): Lends a fresh herbal brightness and vibrant green color.
- White wine vinegar (1 tablespoon): Balances the dressing with gentle acidity.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Small shallot (1, finely minced): Brings a mild oniony depth without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, capers, chopped basil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small bowl. This dressing is the magic behind the dish, offering that perfect balance of tangy, salty, and herbaceous flavors that will complement the scallops beautifully. Set it aside while you cook the scallops.
Step 2: Season the Scallops
Make sure your scallops are thoroughly patted dry—that’s key to getting a gorgeous golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to bring out their natural sweetness and create flavor depth.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the scallops in a single layer, giving each enough space to sear properly—crowding will cause them to steam instead. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are opaque in the center. This quick stovetop method locks in the moisture while giving you that perfect texture contrast.
Step 4: Plate and Dress
Transfer the scallops to a serving plate and generously spoon the orange, basil, and caper dressing over them. The warmth of the scallops will slightly soften the dressing, creating a luscious coating. Serve immediately to enjoy all the fresh flavors at their best.
How to Serve Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh basil leaves or a few additional capers on top adds visual appeal and a final flavor punch. You could also zest a bit more orange over the scallops to brighten the presentation and accentuate the citrus aroma.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette, fluffy couscous that soaks up the dressing, or sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard for a healthy, vibrant plate. Keep the sides simple so the scallops remain the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the scallops on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted fingerling potatoes for a comforting twist. For an elegant appetizer, arrange smaller scallops with a drizzle of dressing on individual spoons garnished with microgreens. The possibilities are endless and sure to impress your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
Scallops are delicate, so freezing cooked scallops is generally not recommended as they can become rubbery upon thawing. It’s better to freeze fresh scallops before cooking if you want to prep ahead.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the scallops in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave which can overcook them. Add the dressing after reheating to preserve its bright flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, frozen scallops will work well as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve the perfect sear.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! This Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for gluten-free diets.
Can I substitute the basil with another herb?
Fresh basil is ideal for its sweet, slightly peppery flavor, but fresh parsley or chives can be a good alternative if needed.
What kind of scallops should I buy?
Look for fresh or thawed dry sea scallops labeled “dry-packed,” as they have not been treated with preservatives and will sear better.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients paired thoughtfully can create extraordinary flavors. It’s light, full of zest, and impressive enough for company, yet quick and easy to prepare any night of the week. Give it a try—you may find it becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes for seafood that’s fresh, vibrant, and delicious.
Print
Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delight in these perfectly seared sea scallops topped with a vibrant orange, basil, and caper dressing. This Mediterranean-inspired main course balances the sweetness of fresh orange juice with the briny punch of capers and the aromatic freshness of basil, delivering a light yet flavorful seafood dish that’s quick to prepare and ideal for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for searing)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Dressing
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, capers, chopped fresh basil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced shallot, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until well combined. Set this vibrant dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the scallops: Pat the sea scallops dry thoroughly to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking, which helps achieve a golden crust on the scallops.
- Sear the scallops: Add the scallops to the hot skillet in a single layer without overcrowding them. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden brown and then carefully flip to cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes. The scallops should be opaque in the center and have a beautifully seared exterior.
- Serve: Remove the scallops from the skillet and arrange them on a serving plate. Spoon the prepared orange, basil, and caper dressing generously over the scallops. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the full brightness of the dressing with the tender scallops.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are completely dry before searing to get a golden crust and prevent steaming.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, fluffy couscous, or sautéed greens to complement the fresh and tangy flavors.
