Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa

Name: Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, minced; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and cilantro to taste

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I love making Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa because it's a dish that brings the taste of summer to my dinner table, no matter the season. The sweet, juicy mango paired with perfectly seared scallops makes for an exquisite combination. It’s a relatively quick dish to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, and it always impresses my guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe is sure to delight and satisfy everyone’s palate.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-22T19:26:27.696Z

When I first tried seared scallops at a local seafood restaurant, I instantly fell in love with their delicate texture and rich flavor. Recreating this delight at home, I discovered that the key to perfect scallops lies in getting the pan searing hot enough before adding them. This ensures a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

The addition of mango salsa not only elevates the dish with a sweet and tangy flavor but also adds a refreshing crunch. One little tip I learned is to let the salsa sit for a few minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate scallops seared to perfection with a beautiful golden crust
Refreshing and sweet mango salsa that balances the savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

Understanding Scallops

When choosing scallops for this recipe, opt for large sea scallops, as they provide a sweeter flavor and a firmer texture. They should be plump and translucent, without any strong fishy odor. To achieve the best results, ensure they are well-dried before searing; excess moisture will prevent that beautiful golden crust from forming. After patting them dry, you’ll want to allow them to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to promote even cooking.

Searing scallops is an art, and the right heat is crucial. Preheat your skillet to medium-high until hot enough for the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes depending on your stove. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing, so if you're preparing a larger batch, use two pans or sear them in batches to ensure even cooking.

Perfecting Mango Salsa

The mango salsa provides an essential balance to the savory scallops, and the quality of your ingredients is key. Select a ripe mango; it should yield slightly when squeezed and have a fragrant aroma. If fresh mango isn't available, you can substitute it with diced pineapple for a similar sweetness. After mixing the salsa, let it rest for at least 10 minutes—this allows the flavors to combine harmoniously, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Feel free to customize the salsa's spiciness to suit your palate. If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before mincing. Another great addition is a diced avocado, which brings creaminess and richness, making it a delightful complement to the scallops. Just be cautious to add it no more than a few moments before serving so it retains its vibrant color.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa:

For the Scallops

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

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and cilantro to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as searing scallops requires precision and attention.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa:

Prepare the Mango Salsa

In a bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Sear the Scallops

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Plate the scallops and top with the mango salsa. Enjoy your delicious creation immediately!

Once you’ve plated your scallops, feel free to add an extra squeeze of lime for added brightness.

Pro Tips

For the best results, make sure the scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear without steaming them.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish stands beautifully on its own, consider serving it alongside a light salad or over a bed of quinoa to make it heartier. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of microgreens can elevate the presentation and add a gourmet touch. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of coconut milk to the mango salsa for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the scallops.

This recipe is also an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the mango salsa a day in advance, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the scallops to the pan fresh, as they are best when served hot and fresh to maintain their tender texture and golden crust.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftover scallops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it's best to consume them immediately for optimal texture and flavor. When reheating, avoid the microwave, which can lead to rubbery scallops; instead, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a little olive oil until heated through, usually around 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

As for the mango salsa, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some liquid may separate during storage. If you find the salsa has become too thick, a splash of lime juice can help refresh its consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before searing to ensure a good crust.

→ What can I substitute for mango if it’s out of season?

Pineapple or peach make great substitutes for a fruity salsa.

→ How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

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

→ Can I make the salsa in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.