🍤 Ingredients for Sizzling Scallops

• 1 lb large sea scallops (dry scallops for best sear)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

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🌿 Ingredients for Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for spicy sauce)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt & pepper to taste

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🔥 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Scallops

• Pat scallops completely dry (key to a restaurant-style golden sear).
• Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, lime zest.

2. Sear the Sizzling Scallops

• Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
• Add olive oil + butter until sizzling.
• Place scallops in the pan, flat side down.
• Cook 2 minutes until golden and sizzling.
• Flip and cook another 1–1½ minutes.
• Remove scallops and keep warm.

3. Make the Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter.
• Add minced garlic and jalapeño and sauté 30 seconds.
• Stir in heavy cream, lime juice, and lime zest.
• Simmer 2 minutes until slightly thick.
• Stir in fresh cilantro.
• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime.

4. Combine

• Return scallops to the skillet and spoon creamy zesty lime cilantro sauce over top.
• Heat for 30 seconds to coat.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve over garlic butter rice, linguine, or mashed potatoes.
• Garnish with extra cilantro + lime wedges.