Savory Scallops with Fried Rice

Name: Savory Scallops with Fried Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops, cleaned; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 3 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I love creating delicious meals that bring together different flavors, and this Savory Scallops with Fried Rice recipe is one of my favorites. The combination of tender scallops, fragrant jasmine rice, and fresh vegetables creates a dish that feels both special and comforting. I've spent years perfecting my technique for searing scallops to achieve that perfect golden crust, and I can't wait to share it with you. This dish is perfect for everything from casual dinners to special celebrations, making it a must-try for any seafood lover!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:06:27.284Z

When I first tried making scallops at home, I was intimidated. However, with a bit of practice, I discovered that perfecting the sear is the key to unlocking their delicate flavor. I've found that making sure the scallops are dry before hitting the pan makes all the difference in getting that beautiful crust. Pairing them with fried rice was an experiment that turned into a delightful recipe!

This dish not only makes your kitchen smell incredible, but it’s also an elegant option for entertaining. The scallops are paired beautifully with the contrasting textures and flavors of the fried rice, making each bite a wonderful experience. I love adding just a hint of garlic and ginger to elevate the taste!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and succulent scallops that are perfectly seared
Flavor-packed fried rice with fresh vegetables
Quick and easy dish perfect for any night of the week

Mastering the Perfect Sear

To achieve perfectly seared scallops, start by ensuring they are dry. Moisture is the enemy of that coveted golden crust. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat each scallop until no moisture remains. The drier the scallop, the better the sear. Furthermore, preheat your skillet before adding oil; it should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately. This ensures a caramelized exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy.

Another crucial factor is spacing—do not overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too crowded, the temperature will drop, causing the scallops to steam rather than sear. Cook in batches if needed, allowing each scallop to have its space to develop an inviting golden color, usually about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

Fried Rice Fundamentals

Using day-old jasmine rice is ideal for fried rice because it has dried out a bit in the fridge, preventing clumping when cooked. If you only have freshly made rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry for about 30 minutes before using. This step is essential for achieving that desired fluffy texture. When stir-frying, cook the vegetables just until they are tender-crisp to maintain a bit of bite and vibrant color in your fried rice.

Adding the soy sauce towards the end of the cooking process helps maintain the rice's texture. To ensure every grain is coated without making it soggy, drizzle the soy sauce evenly around the skillet rather than directly on the rice. This technique allows the rice to absorb flavors while keeping its individual grains intact.

Enhancing Your Dish

For a flavor boost, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice right before serving to brighten the dish. This extra acidity will enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops and add a wonderful contrast to the fried rice's savory notes. You can also experiment with the mixed vegetables based on seasonal availability, swapping in broccoli or snap peas for a unique twist.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, gently warm the fried rice on the stovetop with a dash of water to prevent it from drying out. For the scallops, reheat them briefly in a non-stick pan over medium heat, just until warmed through to avoid rubbery textures.

Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, gather all the ingredients to make the process smoother:

For the Scallops

1 pound large sea scallops, cleaned
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
3 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to preparing this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect meal:

Cook the Fried Rice

In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3 minutes. Stir in the cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce, and chopped green onions. Cook until everything is heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sear the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, working in batches if necessary.

Combine and Serve

Once the scallops are cooked, serve them atop a generous portion of the fried rice. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the pan for extra flavor. Garnish with additional green onions if desired.

Your Savory Scallops with Fried Rice is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Ensure your scallops are dry before searing to achieve a golden crust and avoid steaming them in the pan. If you don't have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool before using it in the fried rice.

Serving Suggestions

This Savory Scallops with Fried Rice pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber salad or a light soy dipping sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a delightful crunch and visual appeal. For those who enjoy a hint of heat, a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can elevate the dish further, providing a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the scallops.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider presenting the scallops on a bed of fried rice with a side of pickled vegetables. This not only adds color but also a refreshing contrast to the richness of the scallops.

Dietary Variations

For a gluten-free option, replace regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Additionally, switching to cauliflower rice can create a lighter, lower-carb version of this dish without sacrificing flavor. If you want to add protein while keeping it plant-based, consider incorporating tofu or edamame into the fried rice.

If you're sensitive to seafood or scallops, this recipe can still work well using grilled chicken or shrimp as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; adjust accordingly to ensure that your protein is cooked through.

Cooking Techniques Recap

Remember, timing is key when preparing scallops and fried rice together. Have your ingredients prepped and ready to go so you can efficiently move from one task to the next. Cooking the fried rice first allows you to keep it warm while you sear the scallops, ensuring that everything is ready to serve at the same time without losing heat or texture.

Finally, don't forget to taste as you go! Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process, especially with the soy sauce and pepper in the fried rice. Each ingredient plays a vital role, so personalizing these flavors can create a dish that is uniquely your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What type of rice works best for fried rice?

Jasmine rice is great for fried rice due to its fluffy texture, but you can also use basmati or long-grain rice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover scallops and fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the fried rice with any vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli, corn, or zucchini.