Gelatin Free Lemon-Dill Seared Scallops
Scallops have a reputation for being restaurant-only territory, but this pan-seared version brings that golden-crusted, melt-in-your-mouth result straight to your home kitchen. The technique is all about patience — letting the scallops dry out completely and then leaving them completely alone in a screaming-hot pan so they develop that deep, caramelized sear that makes the whole dish sing. Coconut oil gives the crust a subtle richness while keeping the ingredient list clean and free from any animal-derived thickeners or setting agents that can sneak into store-bought sauces and marinades. The pan sauce comes together in minutes with garlic, chicken bone broth, fresh lemon juice, and a generous handful of dill — bright, herby, and just slightly syrupy from a quick reduction. It's the kind of sauce you'll want to spoon over everything on the plate. For anyone navigating a diet that rules out gelatin-based glazes or thickeners, this recipe is a genuine win because every element is straightforward and exactly what it says it is. Serve with lemon wedges and a little fresh parsley, and you've got a dish that looks and tastes like serious effort without any of the stress.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ lb large sea scallops (about 12–16 count), side muscle removed
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, divided
For the pan sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup chicken bone broth (homemade or aip-compliant brand)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 ½ lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (for finishing the sauce)
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, roughly chopped
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the scallops thoroughly dry on all sides with paper towels, then season with the fine sea salt. Set them on a clean plate and let them rest uncovered at room temperature for 5 minutes — the surface should look visibly dry before they go into the pan.
- 2
Heat 1 1/2 tbsp of the coconut oil in a 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet over high heat until the oil shimmers and just begins to smoke. Add the scallops in a single layer, flat-side down, without crowding — work in two batches if needed. Sear undisturbed for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes, until the underside is deep golden-brown and releases cleanly from the pan.
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