Savory Scallops with Fried Rice

Name: Savory Scallops with Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 2 eggs, beaten; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 green onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

I absolutely love making Savory Scallops with Fried Rice when I'm looking for a quick yet elegant meal. The combination of tender, seared scallops and fluffy rice packed with savory flavors makes for a wonderful dish that impresses both family and friends. It's a fantastic way to enjoy seafood, and I find that the dish comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe showcases the scallops beautifully, making it a perfect choice for those special occasions or just a cozy dinner at home.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:18:29.400Z

Creating this dish was a delightful experience. I decided to pair succulent scallops with fried rice, a combination that elevates weeknight dinners into something special. The key to perfect scallops is ensuring they are dry before cooking, which helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust.

As I sautéed the vegetables for the fried rice, I added a splash of soy sauce for depth. I found that using day-old rice yields the best texture, so I often make extra rice the night before. This simple tip makes the dish come together seamlessly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delicate flavor of scallops perfectly complemented by fragrant rice.
A brilliant blend of textures from the crispy scallops and soft rice.
An impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Mastering Scallop Searing

The key to perfectly seared scallops lies in their preparation. Ensure they are very dry before cooking; moisture will prevent that beautiful golden crust from forming. After patting them dry, seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial as it enhances the scallops' natural sweetness. When adding scallops to the pan, make sure the olive oil is shimmering but not smoking—this indicates the right temperature. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the scallops will stick, and you’ll miss the desired crust.

Timing is everything, so keep an eye on the scallops! Searing for about 2-3 minutes per side allows them to develop a rich, golden color. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they easily release from the pan; if they stick, give them a bit more time. The perfect scallops should be opaque in the center, tender yet slightly firm to the touch.

Creating Flavorful Fried Rice

Fried rice offers an opportunity to incorporate lots of flavors. By using jasmine rice, you get a fragrant base that pairs wonderfully with scallops. It’s best to use cold, day-old rice as it helps prevent the grains from clumping together during cooking. If you’re short on time, ensure your rice is cooled completely after cooking to keep it fluffy. While cooking the vegetables, aim for vibrant colors as a sign of freshness; they should be tender yet retain a slight crunch.

Adding beaten eggs directly to the vegetables allows them to mix seamlessly into the rice. Cook the eggs until just set and soft; they contribute to the dish's overall creaminess. The soy sauce not only seasons the fried rice but also adds depth. Mix thoroughly to ensure each grain is coated, but avoid overcooking, as this can make the rice mushy. A drizzle of sesame oil at the end boosts the aromatic quality and is a wonderful finishing touch.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Scallops

8 large scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 green onion, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepared before you start cooking for smooth execution.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Fried Rice

In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Push to the side and pour the beaten eggs into the pan, scrambling them until fully cooked. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Gently fold the seared scallops into the fried rice. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onion.

Enjoy your meal while it’s hot for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

Make sure your scallops are very dry before cooking to achieve a better sear.

Serving Suggestions

This Savory Scallops with Fried Rice dish is delightful when paired with a light, crisp salad or steamed vegetables. A side of sautéed greens, like bok choy or spinach, can add a fresh contrast to the richness of the scallops. Additionally, a splash of lime juice right before serving can brighten the entire dish and enhance the flavors remarkably.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the scallops on a bed of fried rice in individual bowls, topped with fresh microgreens or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. It’s visually appealing and invites guests to dig right in while ensuring every bite comes with a perfect mix of scallop and rice.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make this dish ahead, I recommend storing the fried rice and scallops separately. The fried rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, while the scallops are best cooked just before serving to retain their texture. If you need to reheat the rice, do it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

You can also customize your fried rice using various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. For instance, shrimp or chicken can be excellent alternatives to scallops. Just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly—cook shrimp until pink and opaque, while chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safely enjoyed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Jasmine rice or basmati rice works well for a fluffy texture.

→ Can I add other proteins to the fried rice?

Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be great additions.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Feel free to add chili flakes or sriracha to the fried rice for some heat.