A simple, elegant recipe to bring the coast to your table

At Oceano Wines, we believe every meal is an opportunity to slow down, connect, and savor. Few dishes capture that feeling better than seared scallops. Sweet, tender, and delicately briny, scallops are a true gift from the sea. With a quick sear and a drizzle of lemon herb butter, they become something extraordinary.

This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for an elevated weeknight dinner or the centerpiece of a gathering. Pair it with a chilled glass of Oceano Chardonnay or our ultra-low-alcohol Syrah to bring the flavor of the coast to your table.

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

  • 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the scallops

Rinse scallops under cold water, then pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a golden crust. Season both sides with sea salt and pepper.

2. Sear the scallops

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add scallops, leaving space between each one. Sear for 1½ to 2 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove scallops from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the lemon herb butter

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and chives. Stir until fragrant.

4. Combine and serve

Return scallops to the skillet for a quick toss in the sauce, just long enough to coat. Serve immediately, spooning extra lemon herb butter over the top.

Wine Pairing

The citrus and herbs in this dish pair beautifully with Oceano Chardonnay, whose crisp acidity and subtle minerality highlight the scallops’ sweetness. For a more unexpected option, try our ultra-low-alcohol Syrah served slightly chilled. The gentle tannins and vibrant fruit complement the richness of the butter sauce.

Whether you are hosting friends or preparing a quiet dinner for yourself, this recipe proves that luxury can be created with minimal ingredients and a clear intention. With careful preparation, balanced flavors, and the right wine, the result is always worth the effort.