Caribbean Seared Scallops with Pineapple

Name: Caribbean Seared Scallops with Pineapple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Caribbean Seared Scallops with Pineapple because it takes me back to the vibrant flavors of the islands. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the savory scallops, making each bite a delightful surprise. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually stunning with its colorful presentation. Whether I'm entertaining guests or craving a flavorful meal at home, I find this recipe to be both simple and impressive, packing a punch of tropical flavors that transports me to the beach.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:14:29.020Z

Making Caribbean Seared Scallops with Pineapple has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. The key is to sear the scallops perfectly, achieving that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. I also love how the warm pineapple salsa adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. Using fresh, ripe pineapple is essential, as it enhances the overall taste and balances the seasoning beautifully.

One of the most exciting things about this recipe is the simplicity of preparation — it showcases how a few quality ingredients can create something spectacular. I proud to say that I often get compliments on this dish, and it frequently graces our dinner table for special occasions. It's a fantastic way to bring a tropical flair to any meal!

Why You'll Love These Scallops
Perfectly seared for a crispy exterior and tender interior
Lively pineapple salsa adds a refreshing contrast
Quick to make, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining
Delicious blend of spices that takes your taste buds on a journey

Mastering the Searing Technique

Searing scallops to perfection is an art. Start by ensuring your scallops are very dry; moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear. I like to pat them with paper towels a few times before seasoning. Preheating your skillet is crucial; the oil should shimmer when heated to a medium-high temperature. This helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside. If you see the edges turning golden, you’re on the right track.

Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too many scallops at once, the temperature of the skillet will drop, and you’ll end up steaming instead of searing. Cook them in batches if necessary. The ideal timing is about 2-3 minutes per side; flip once when the first side has developed a nice crust. Remember to resist the urge to flip too soon—it’ll give you that beautiful caramelization that enhances flavor.

Creating the Perfect Pineapple Salsa

The pineapple salsa complements the seared scallops perfectly, adding freshness and a burst of flavor. For maximum taste, use ripe, sweet pineapple as it will provide natural sweetness to the dish. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned can work in a pinch; just ensure it’s drained well, so the salsa isn't watery. The acidity from the lime juice not only brightens the flavors but also adds a nice contrast to the richness of the scallops.

When mixing the salsa, it's best to let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors from the cilantro, red onion, and lime to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive flavor profile. Experimenting with the quantity of red onion can also help you find the right balance for your taste buds; if you're sensitive to raw onions, consider soaking them in cold water beforehand to mellow their flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience.

For the scallops

1 pound large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the pineapple salsa

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your scallops are perfectly cooked.

Prepare the salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Season the scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the scallops

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.

Serve

Plate the seared scallops and top with the pineapple salsa. Enjoy your Caribbean-inspired dish!

Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro if desired!

Pro Tips

For perfectly cooked scallops, ensure they are dry before cooking to achieve a better sear. Additionally, allow them to rest for a minute before serving to enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, serve the seared scallops on a bed of mixed greens or over coconut rice for a tropical twist. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can provide a beautiful visual contrast, adding both flavor and elegance. Accompanying this dish with a light, chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the overall Caribbean experience.

For a more robust meal, consider pairing the scallops with grilled shrimp or fish, allowing guests to create their own tropical plate. Adding some grilled vegetables on the side can also enhance the colors and flavors while keeping the dish light and healthy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery. I recommend reheating in a skillet with a splash of water to create steam, covering it for a few minutes.

The pineapple salsa can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. However, for best results, add the lime juice right before serving to keep the flavors crisp. If making in advance, consider keeping the pineapple, onion, and cilantro separate, combining them just before it's time to serve for the freshest taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for pineapple?

Mango or peach would make excellent substitutions, providing a similarly sweet and fruity element.

→ How long do scallops take to cook?

Scallops typically take about 2-3 minutes per side to cook properly, depending on their size.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While the salsa can be made in advance, it's best to sear the scallops just before serving for optimal texture.