Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsStella BluPan Seared Scallops Recipe

Pan Seared Scallops Recipe

Inspired by Stella Blu
Time45m
Serves4

with polenta, cranberry gastrique

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Ingredients

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Scallops

Polenta

Cranberry Gastrique

Method

Cranberry Gastrique

  1. 1

    Prepare the Gastrique

    In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, red wine vinegar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Simmer the Mixture

    Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.

  3. 3

    Strain the Sauce

    Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. Set aside.

Polenta

  1. 4

    Boil Water

    In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt to a boil.

  2. 5

    Cook Polenta

    Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

  3. 6

    Add Butter and Cheese

    Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Scallops

  1. 7

    Prepare the Scallops

    Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

  2. 8

    Heat the Pan

    In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  3. 9

    Sear the Scallops

    Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown and then flip. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through.

  4. 10

    Serve

    Arrange a scoop of creamy polenta on each plate, top with seared scallops, and drizzle with cranberry gastrique. Serve immediately.

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