If you are looking for a dish that feels elegant, fresh, and surprisingly easy to make at home, Seared Scallops with Green Goddess Slaw is a perfect choice. This recipe combines the delicate sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with a vibrant, herb-packed slaw that adds brightness, crunch, and refreshing flavor to every bite.

Scallops are often associated with fine dining restaurants, but the truth is that they are incredibly simple to cook if you follow a few key techniques. When seared correctly, scallops develop a beautiful golden crust on the outside while remaining tender and buttery inside. Pairing them with a creamy and herbaceous green goddess slaw transforms the dish into a well-balanced meal that feels both light and satisfying.

The Green Goddess dressing originates from classic American cuisine and is known for its blend of fresh herbs, citrus, and creamy ingredients. In this recipe, the dressing coats a crunchy cabbage-based slaw, adding freshness that perfectly complements the rich caramelization of the scallops.

Whether you’re planning a healthy dinner, an impressive date-night meal, or a light summer dish, this recipe checks every box. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, naturally gluten-free, and full of vibrant flavors.

Ingredient Notes

Sea Scallops

Sea scallops are the star of the recipe. Choose large, dry-packed sea scallops instead of wet-packed scallops. Dry scallops do not contain added preservatives and sear much better because they do not release excess moisture. Fresh scallops should have a slightly sweet ocean smell and a firm texture.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps prevent sticking and contributes to the golden crust during searing. Choose extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Butter

Butter adds richness and enhances the caramelization of the scallops. When combined with olive oil, it creates a perfect searing medium that prevents burning while delivering great flavor.

Sea Salt

Sea salt helps bring out the natural sweetness of scallops. A coarse sea salt works well because it distributes evenly across the surface.

Black Pepper

Freshly ground black pepper adds subtle warmth and enhances the savory taste of the dish.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder provides a mild garlic flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the scallops.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of both the scallops and the dressing.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt forms the creamy base of the green goddess dressing. It adds protein, tanginess, and a lighter texture compared to heavy cream.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise contributes creaminess and depth to the dressing. It balances the acidity of the yogurt and herbs.

Fresh Parsley

Parsley adds a fresh herbal flavor and vibrant color. It is one of the signature herbs in classic green goddess dressing.

Chives

Chives add a mild onion-like flavor that enhances the dressing without being overpowering.

Fresh Basil

Basil adds aromatic sweetness and complexity to the herb blend.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard adds subtle spice and helps emulsify the dressing.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds depth and savory notes to the dressing.

Cabbage

Green and purple cabbage provide crunch, color, and fiber. They form the base of the refreshing slaw.

Carrots

Carrots add natural sweetness and additional texture.

Cucumber

Cucumber brings freshness and moisture to the slaw.

Green Onions

Green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the herbs in the dressing.

Serving Instructions

Serve the scallops immediately after cooking while they are warm and tender.

This dish pairs well with:

• roasted vegetables
• quinoa or rice
• crusty bread
• light white wine

For presentation, garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or extra chopped chives.

Tips

1. Dry the scallops thoroughly

Moisture prevents proper browning. Patting them dry ensures a crisp golden crust.

2. Use high heat

Scallops need a hot pan to sear correctly. A cold pan will cause them to steam instead.

3. Do not overcrowd the pan

Crowding reduces heat and prevents proper caramelization.

4. Avoid overcooking

Perfect scallops should be slightly translucent in the center.

5. Chill the slaw before serving

Allowing the slaw to sit for 10–15 minutes enhances flavor.

Storage Information

Refrigeration

Store leftover scallops and slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat scallops gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.

Freezing

Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended because it affects their texture.

Print Recipe

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Healthy

Seared Scallops with Green Goddess Slaw

Author: Samantha Doe Cooking Method: Sauteing Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner, Lunch Recipe Keys: Corn Free Gluten Free High Protein Nut Free Pescetarian Quick Meals Soy Free

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 20 mins

Cooking Temp: 200  C Calories: 320

Best Season: Spring, Summer

Description

Seared Scallops with Green Goddess Slaw is a light yet satisfying dish featuring golden-crusted sea scallops served over a crisp cabbage slaw tossed in a creamy herb-filled green goddess dressing. The dish balances rich seafood flavor with fresh herbs, citrus brightness, and crunchy vegetables.

It’s a restaurant-quality meal that can be prepared at home in under 30 minutes and works beautifully as a main course or elegant appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Seared Scallops

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Green Goddess Dressing

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Slaw

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

1. Remove the scallops from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before cooking. Pat them completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
2. Season both sides of the scallops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing

1. In a blender or food processor combine:
2. Greek yogurt
3. Mayonnaise
4. Parsley
5. Chives
6. Basil
7. Lemon juice
8. Dijon mustard
9. Garlic
10. Olive oil
11. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw

1. In a large mixing bowl combine:
2. Green cabbage
3. Purple cabbage
4. Carrots
5. Cucumber
6. Green onions
7. Pour the green goddess dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate while you cook the scallops.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to become very hot. Add olive oil and butter to the pan.
2. The butter should melt and begin to foam slightly.

Step 5: Sear the Scallops

1. Place the scallops in the pan, leaving space between them.
2. Cook without moving them for about 2 minutes until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip the scallops carefully and cook another 1–2 minutes until just opaque in the center.
4. Avoid overcooking, as scallops become rubbery when cooked too long.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon

1. Remove the scallops from the pan and drizzle lightly with lemon juice.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

1. Place a generous portion of green goddess slaw on each plate. Arrange the seared scallops on top.
2. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 320kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 18g28%

Total Carbohydrate 10g4%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 5g

Protein 28g57%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tools

To prepare this dish efficiently, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• Large cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Food processor or blender
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels (for drying scallops)

Using a heavy skillet like cast iron is particularly important because it helps develop the beautiful golden crust on the scallops.

Keywords: keto, high protein, low carb