If you’re looking for a light yet luxurious seafood dinner, Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing is the recipe that effortlessly brings a bit of sunshine to your plate. Perfectly seared scallops get a dazzling lift from a zesty dressing bursting with bright orange, salty capers, and fragrant basil. This dish is a celebration of fresh flavors—quick enough for a busy night, but sophisticated enough to steal the scene at your next dinner party. Get ready to fall in love with a meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but comes together in just over 15 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one of those recipes where every element matters and shines. Simple, high-quality ingredients work in beautiful harmony for Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing, ensuring each bite is a perfect balance of tender seafood, citrusy brightness, and fresh herbal notes.
- Sea scallops (1 pound, patted dry): These sweet, meaty jewels are the center of the dish, so look for large, dry-packed scallops for that perfect golden sear.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon for searing): Helps you achieve the essential caramelized crust without overpowering the natural scallop flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that let the seafood shine, but don’t skip them—the scallops need a sprinkle to bring out their best.
- Orange (zested and juiced): Fresh orange elevates the dressing with punchy citrus flavor and aroma, plus adds gorgeous color.
- Capers (2 tablespoons, drained): Their briny, savory punch wakes up every bite and plays perfectly with the orange and basil.
- Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds bright, peppery freshness that instantly makes this dish feel like summer.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and helps emulsify the dressing for a creamy, clingy finish.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons for dressing): Gives the dressing body and depth while melding all those bold flavors together.
- Honey (1 teaspoon, optional): A touch of sweetness rounds the edges of the citrus and mustard—taste first then decide if you want it.
How to Make Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing
Step 1: Whisk Together the Dressing
Start by combining the orange juice, orange zest, drained capers, chopped basil, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and honey (if you want just a hint of sweetness) in a small bowl. Whisk until everything is well blended and slightly creamy. This colorful dressing will make your Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing truly irresistible, and you’ll love how the fragrance hints at the flavors to come.
Step 2: Prep the Scallops
Pat your scallops extra dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper. This not only builds a solid flavor foundation, but also helps the scallops sear beautifully rather than steam. If your scallops are wet, you’ll never get that signature golden brown crust that makes them so mouthwatering!
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
In a large skillet, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking. Add the scallops in a single layer—make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan, or they won’t caramelize properly (work in batches if needed). Sear the scallops for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, only flipping once, until they’re golden and just opaque in the center.
Step 4: Plate and Dress
As soon as the scallops are done, remove them from the skillet and arrange on your serving plates. Immediately spoon the vibrant orange, basil, and caper dressing generously over the top. The warmth from the scallops will lightly infuse the dressing with rich, savory notes—making your Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing pop with flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your dish off with a final flourish of fresh basil and a pinch of extra orange zest if desired. Serve your masterpiece warm, and get ready to watch your guests swoon over every bright, beautiful bite.
How to Serve Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing
Garnishes
The right garnish brings this dish to life! Fresh basil leaves piled on top make the colors look vivid and tempting, while a sprinkle of fresh orange zest intensifies the citrus perfume. If you want a little extra visual flair, top with a few whole capers or tiny basil sprigs.
Side Dishes
Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing pair beautifully with light, fresh sides—think herby couscous, creamy risotto, or a simple green salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette. For a gluten-free feast, try roasted asparagus or a pile of garlicky sautéed spinach.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving your scallops atop a bed of microgreens on individual plates. Or, turn them into elegant appetizers by nestling each scallop on a crisp cucumber slice and drizzling with extra dressing. However you present them, Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing always look and taste spectacular.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cool the scallops completely before transferring them to an airtight container along with a small amount of the dressing to keep them moist. Refrigerate and enjoy within two days for best quality.
Freezing
Scallops are best enjoyed fresh, especially when paired with this delicate citrus dressing. Freezing is not recommended, as it can cause the texture to become rubbery and the dressing to separate. Try to make just enough for immediate enjoyment!
Reheating
To gently reheat, place scallops in a skillet over very low heat with a splash of water or orange juice. Cover and warm until just heated through, then re-dress with reserved dressing. Avoid microwaving, as this can toughen your beautiful scallops.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before searing. Using frozen scallops is a convenient option, but extra care with drying will help you get that crucial golden crust.
Can I substitute the orange with another citrus fruit?
Absolutely! While orange delivers wonderful sweetness, you could use blood oranges for more depth, or even grapefruit for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that more sour citrus may need a touch of extra honey in the dressing.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Though nothing perfectly replicates the flavor of scallops, you could try large king oyster mushroom rounds as a plant-based “scallop”—sear and dress the same way for an earthy, satisfying alternative.
Do I have to use Dijon mustard in the dressing?
Dijon adds tang and helps the ingredients emulsify, but if you don’t have it on hand, try a mild stone-ground mustard or even a small pinch of dry mustard powder. Just be mindful that some mustards are stronger than others and may change the finish.
What wine pairs best with Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing?
Crisp whites are a gorgeous match! Try a Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, or a citrusy Pinot Grigio to complement the orange and herbal notes of the dish. Avoid anything heavily oaked, which can overpower the scallops’ delicate flavor.
Final Thoughts
Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing is one of those unforgettable dishes that’s sure to become a go-to for impressing (or simply treating yourself). Every bite bursts with fresh, vibrant flavor—and the best part is how fast and easy it is. Give this recipe a try and let it bring a bright Mediterranean flair to your next dinner table. Happy cooking!
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Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with this exquisite recipe for Scallops with Orange, Basil, and Caper Dressing. Tender sea scallops are seared to perfection and topped with a vibrant citrus-infused dressing that enhances their natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Sea Scallops:
1 pound sea scallops (patted dry),
For Seared Scallops:
1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and black pepper to taste,
Orange Basil Caper Dressing:
1 orange (zested and juiced), 2 tablespoons capers (drained), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for dressing), 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, capers, chopped basil, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and honey (if using). Set the dressing aside.
- Sear the Scallops: Season the scallops with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove from heat and plate immediately.
- Finish and Serve: Spoon the orange, basil, and caper dressing over the scallops. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra fresh basil or orange zest.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet—sear scallops in batches if needed to maintain a golden crust.
- Pair with couscous, risotto, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
