Savory Scallops over Spinach

Name: Savory Scallops over Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large scallops; 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals

I absolutely love this dish featuring savory scallops served over a bed of fresh spinach. The combination of tender, perfectly seared scallops with the vibrant greens creates a beautiful presentation and a burst of flavors that I can't resist. Each bite is not only satisfying but also feels like a treat, making it ideal for both quick dinners and special occasions. The simplicity of the ingredients really allows the scallops to shine, and I find that it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood in a light yet filling way.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:53:28.158Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to experiment with scallops, a seafood I've always found delightful. The key to this dish is to sear the scallops just right – they should be golden on the outside and tender inside. I discovered that brining them briefly not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a juicy texture. This small step made a significant difference in how they turned out!

Pairing the scallops with sautéed spinach brought a wonderful earthiness to the dish. I learned to season the spinach lightly with garlic and lemon to elevate its flavor without overpowering it. The result was a harmonious dish that feels both fancy and comforting at the same time. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of how a few simple ingredients can create an impressive meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly seared scallops paired with fresh spinach
Light yet satisfying, great for any occasion
Quick cooking process perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Quality Scallops

When preparing savory scallops, the quality of the scallops is crucial. Look for dry-packed scallops, as they are fresher and will sear beautifully without excess moisture. Avoid wet scallops, which are often treated with a preservative solution that can impact both flavor and texture. The best scallops will have a slight sheen, firm texture, and a sweet, briny scent. Sourcing them from a reputable fishmonger ensures you’re getting the best quality for this dish.

Properly preparing the scallops is a key step in achieving that perfect sear. Patting them dry prior to cooking is essential; moisture is the enemy of a good sear. If you choose to brine them in salted water for 10 minutes, it not only enhances flavor but also helps maintain moisture during cooking. The result will be tender, juicy scallops with a delightful golden crust.

Cooking Spinach to Perfection

Sautéing spinach can be deceptively simple, but timing is everything. Once you add fresh spinach to the pan, stir constantly until it wilts down, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If overcooked, spinach can become mushy and lose its vibrant color, so keep an eye on it. The moment it turns a deep green and becomes tender yet still retains a bit of bite, it’s ready to be seasoned with lemon juice, which adds a bright contrast to the earthy flavors.

In this recipe, the addition of garlic to the sauté infuses the spinach with rich flavor. Ensure you're using fresh garlic; if you let it brown too much, it can turn bitter. If you're short on time, pre-washed and trimmed spinach makes for a quick alternative. However, I recommend opting for fresh whenever possible to truly appreciate the dish’s flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

8 large scallops
4 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your savory scallops:

Prep the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel, then season them with salt and pepper. Optionally, brine them in a saltwater solution for 10 minutes beforehand for extra flavor.

Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, around 2-3 minutes.

Add lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.

Sear the Scallops

In a separate skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a proper sear.

Plate and Serve

Place a generous portion of sautéed spinach on each plate and top with the seared scallops. Feel free to drizzle a little extra lemon juice for added brightness. Enjoy your meal!

Don’t forget to enjoy your creation!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your scallops are at room temperature before cooking and avoid flipping them too soon to achieve a perfect sear.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation, consider serving the scallops and spinach on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside quinoa for added texture. These grain bases not only add heartiness to the dish but also soak up the lemony flavors beautifully. Garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, will bring a refreshing touch and brighten the visual charm of the dish.

Pairing your savory scallops over spinach with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the meal’s overall flavor experience. The acidity in the wine complements the sweetness of the scallops and the lemon dressing, creating a harmonious dining experience. Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side for mopping up any remaining juices.

Make-Ahead Tips

While scallops are best cooked fresh, you can prepare the sautéed spinach ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the spinach in a skillet over medium heat until warm, then plate it with freshly seared scallops to avoid overcooking.

If you have leftover scallops, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. When reheating, do so gently using a skillet over low heat with a bit of olive oil to help restore their texture. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them rubbery. Serve them again on a fresh bed of spinach for an easy second meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and dry them thoroughly before cooking to achieve a good sear.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side over high heat.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

You can substitute the spinach with arugula or kale for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While the spinach and scallops are best eaten fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook them just before serving.