Mango Salsa Seared Scallops

Name: Mango Salsa Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors in this Mango Salsa Seared Scallops recipe. The sweet and tangy mango salsa perfectly complements the seared scallops, making each bite a burst of tropical goodness. It's a dish that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. I find that the key to perfect scallops is a hot pan and not overcrowding them. This ensures a beautiful sear while keeping them tender inside. It's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for entertaining or a special dinner treat!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:06:27.373Z

When I first experimented with searing scallops, I was amazed at how quickly they cook. Just a few minutes on each side and they develop a gorgeous golden crust that seals in their natural sweetness. This dish became a favorite in my household, especially when accompanied by my zesty mango salsa, which adds a refreshing twist that's hard to resist.

One time, I decided to serve this recipe at a small gathering, and it was met with rave reviews. Everyone loved how the sweetness of the mango danced with the savory scallops. If you're hesitant about cooking scallops, remember to keep them dry and let them rest before searing. It makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty mango salsa adds a tropical flair.
Quick and easy preparation for a weeknight dinner.
Tender scallops with a perfect golden sear.

Key Technique for Perfect Scallops

Achieving the perfect sear on scallops hinges on both temperature and timing. It's crucial to preheat your skillet for at least 3-5 minutes before adding the olive oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke – this indicates it's hot enough. If you drop in a scallop and it doesn't sizzle immediately, the pan isn't hot enough, and you risk steaming rather than searing your scallops, leading to a less desirable texture.

When placing the scallops in the skillet, give them ample space. Overcrowding can lower the pan's temperature, preventing that sought-after golden crust. Aim for a maximum of six scallops at a time in an average-sized skillet. If you have more, consider cooking them in batches. This ensures each scallop gets that deliciously crisp exterior while remaining tender and flaky inside.

Ingredient Insights

The mango salsa is not only a fresh complement to the scallops but also a critical element for balancing flavors. The sweetness of ripe mango offsets the savory scallops, while the lime juice and jalapeño introduce acidity and heat. If fresh mango isn't available, you can substitute with diced peach or pineapple for a similar sweet-tart effect, maintaining the dish's tropical essence.

Cilantro not only enhances the flavor of the salsa but also brings a vibrant green color that livens up the presentation. However, if you're one of those who find cilantro's flavor overwhelming, you can swap it out for fresh mint or even parsley. Each of these herbs will offer a unique twist while still contributing to the freshness of the salsa.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the Mango Salsa and prepare your scallops:

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Scallops

1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Mango Salsa Seared Scallops:

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and cilantro. Mix gently until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops to the skillet without overcrowding them. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque in the center.

Serve

Place the seared scallops on a plate and top with a generous scoop of mango salsa. Enjoy your delicious dish immediately!

Enjoy your Mango Salsa Seared Scallops warm with your favorite side!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your scallops are as dry as possible before searing them. This helps achieve that perfect crust!

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. However, I recommend waiting to add the cilantro until just before serving, as this keeps it looking vibrant and prevents it from wilting.

If you're planning a dinner party, consider cooking the scallops right before serving, as they are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, you can store the seared scallops in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.

Serving Suggestions

While the mango salsa is a delightful pairing with scallops, don’t hesitate to get creative with how you serve this dish. Present the scallops atop a bed of coconut rice or quinoa for added texture and taste. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables, enhancing the tropical theme while adding more color and nutrition to your plate.

For a twist, consider drizzling a bit of chili sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut over the salsa and scallops before serving. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also elevates the dish in terms of presentation, impressing your guests at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with scallops?

Scallops pair wonderfully with light salads, rice, or steamed vegetables.

→ How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are done when they appear opaque and feel firm to the touch. They should have a nice golden crust on both sides.

→ Can I substitute mango with another fruit?

Certainly! Pineapple or peach could be excellent alternatives for the salsa, adding their own unique flavors.