Seared Scallops with Beurre Blanc and Finger Lime Pearls

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@citroncaviar

This recipe is a delightful combination of perfectly seared scallops and a rich beurre blanc sauce, elevated with the unique burst of finger lime pearls. The beurre blanc is creamy and tangy, while the scallops are golden brown and tender. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests with a gourmet meal.

Seared Scallops with Beurre Blanc and Finger Lime Pearls recipe

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Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
10min
Total Time
40min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 3 scallops with sauce)

For the beurre blanc

  • dry white wine
    dry white wine
    1cup
  • white wine vinegar
    white wine vinegar
    2tbsp
  • large shallot, thinly sliced
    large shallot, thinly sliced
    1
  • butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and kept chilled
    butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and kept chilled
    16tbsp
  • minced fresh tarragon
    minced fresh tarragon
    1tsp
  • finger limes, halved and pearls removed
    finger limes, halved and pearls removed
    4
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
    Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For the scallops

  • Olive oil or grapeseed oil
    Olive oil or grapeseed oil
  • large sea scallops
    large sea scallops
    12
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
    Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste

How to make Seared Scallops with Beurre Blanc and Finger Lime Pearls

For the beurre blanc

  1. Step 1

    https://citroncaviarlb.com/seared-scallops-with-finger-lime-beurre-blanc/ Boil wine, vinegar, and shallot in a medium saucepan over medium heat until reduced to 3 tablespoons, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly for about 30 seconds.

    Step 1.1: https://citroncaviarlb
  2. Step 2

    Turn on the heat to very low, just enough to keep the mixture warm but not hot. Place the saucepan over the heat and add a few cold butter cubes to the reduced shallot-wine mixture. Whisk until the butter is almost completely incorporated.

    Step 1.1: Turn on the heat to very low, just enough to keep the mixture warm but not hot
  3. Step 3

    Continue adding the butter a few cubes at a time, whisking until the mixture reaches the consistency of thick heavy cream. Stir in tarragon, half the lime pearls, and salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside.

    Step 1.1: Continue adding the butter a few cubes at a time, whisking until the mixture reaches the consistency of thick heavy cream

For the scallops

  1. Step 1

    Pat scallops dry on all sides with paper towels. Let scallops sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to allow the surface to dry out for better searing.

    Step 2.1: Pat scallops dry on all sides with paper towels
  2. Step 2

    Heat a heavy non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, about 1-2 tablespoons. Swirl the pan to evenly coat with oil.

    Step 2.1: Heat a heavy non-stick pan over medium-high heat
  3. Step 3

    When the oil starts to shimmer, add the scallops and sear until the underside is golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gently turn scallops over and sear the other side until golden brown and just cooked through, about 2 minutes more.

To serve

  1. Step 1

    Divide scallops among 4 plates. Spoon sauce over scallops and top each scallop with some of the remaining lime pearls.

    Step 3.1: Divide scallops among 4 plates

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

408.8kcal (20.44%)

Protein

0.3g (0.6%)

Carbs

1.0g (0.37%)

Sugars

0.4g (0.8%)

Healthy Fat

12.5g

Unhealthy Fat

30.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing scallops to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.

  2. You should hear a nice sizzle when the scallops hit the pan; this indicates the oil is hot enough.

  3. Keep the butter chilled and add it gradually to the sauce to achieve the perfect consistency.

FAQS

  1. Can I use a substitute for finger limes?

    Yes, you can use lemon or lime zest as a substitute, though it won't have the same texture as finger lime pearls.

  2. What type of white wine should I use for the beurre blanc?

    A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for this recipe.

  3. How do I know when the scallops are cooked through?

    Scallops are cooked when they are opaque in the center and have a golden brown crust on both sides.

  4. Can I prepare the beurre blanc sauce ahead of time?

    It's best to prepare the sauce fresh, as it may separate if reheated. However, you can keep it warm over very low heat for a short time.

  5. What is the best pan for searing scallops?

    A heavy non-stick or cast-iron pan works best for achieving a golden brown sear on scallops.

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Citron Caviar is a unique citrus! The fruit’s variety ranging in color from purplish or greenish-black to light green or burgundy, is becoming more popular...

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