What cookware works best?

Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.

How do I know it is done?

Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

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Skillet Meals

Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach

Name: Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sea scallops, patted dry; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups fresh baby spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

By PanPotPlates Test KitchenReviewed by PanPotPlates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 15, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026

American-Inspired 20 mins quickeasypescatarianhighproteinonepanskilletfamily-friendlyhealthylightweeknightflavorfultimessaver

This easy one-pan skillet recipe delivers tender, golden brown scallops atop garlicky lemon spinach cooked in rich butter. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a healthy, flavorful pescatarian dinner perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.

Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach

Prep 10 min

Cook 10 min

Total 20 min

Servings 4

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American-Inspired

Ingredients

Servings 4

1 lb (450g) sea scallops, patted dry
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups fresh baby spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Ingredients for Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Once hot, season the scallops liberally with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place scallops in the skillet spaced evenly. Sear without moving for 2-3 minutes until the bottom develops a golden crust.
Flip scallops gently and sear the other side for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through and opaque. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
Once butter melts, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (avoid burning).
Add fresh spinach and toss until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Season spinach with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the scallops to the skillet on top of the spinach to warm briefly for 30 seconds.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach cooking in the recommended pan or pot

Tips

Pan Or Pot Required

For this recipe, a large 10 to 12-inch skillet is essential to perfectly sear scallops and sauté the garlic butter lemon spinach in one pan.

Cookware Size Guidance

For best results with this one-pan skillet meal serving 4 , use a 10 to 12-inch heavy-bottomed skillet .

Cookware Swap Guidance

et, suitable alternatives for preparing this one-pan Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach include: Cast Iron Pan: Provides great heat retention and ideal searing capabilities for a flavorful crust.

Leftovers Quality

Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach ahead?: Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
What cookware works best?: Use a wide skillet and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
How do I know it is done?: Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.

Need to swap ingredients? Here are substitution tips to tailor this one-pan skillet meal for dietary preferences or availability:

Sea Scallops: Substitute large shrimp or firm white fish fillets such as cod or halibut for a similar pescatarian high-protein alternative.
Unsalted Butter: Use dairy-free margarine or plant-based butter to make this recipe dairy-free while retaining rich flavor.
Olive Oil: Avocado or light vegetable oil works well for high-heat cooking with a neutral taste.
Fresh Baby Spinach: Swap with kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a leafy green alternative.
Garlic: Use garlic powder sparingly if fresh garlic is unavailable.
Lemon: Lime juice and zest offer a bright citrus twist.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Paprika can be used for milder heat or omit entirely for a kid-friendly version.

These substitutions keep the recipe easy, flavorful, and perfect for wholesome family dinners and quick, healthy meals.

Storage and Reheating

Cool Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Skillet Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter and Lemon Spinach

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions