Frontier Scallops Recipe
This Easy Frontier Scallops Recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal, featuring perfectly seared scallops with simple seasonings. It’s a gourmet experience that you can enjoy right at home.

I like making Frontier Scallops at home, especially in the summer when fresh seafood is at its best. I really enjoy preparing this dish with my husband, who is also a big fan of perfectly seared scallops. For making Frontier Scallops, I use high-quality sea scallops, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic.
Personally, I like to serve it with a side of roasted asparagus and a lemon butter sauce, which complements the delicate flavor of the scallops beautifully. Making this dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a gourmet experience at home without any fuss.
What is Frontier Scallops?
Frontier Scallops are a delicious seafood dish featuring scallops cooked to perfection. Typically seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, these scallops are pan-seared or grilled until they achieve a golden brown crust while remaining tender inside. The dish highlights the natural sweetness of the scallops and can be served with various sides like vegetables, rice, or salads.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to make Frontier Scallops
Step 1:
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the scallops.
Step 3:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 4:
Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the scallops are golden brown and opaque in the center.
Step 5:
In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 6:
Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the scallops with fresh lemon juice.
Step 7:
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the scallops before serving.
Additional tips for making Frontier Scallops
Before cooking, make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a perfect sear and prevents excess moisture from steaming them.
Season the scallops with salt and pepper just before cooking. This ensures the seasoning adheres well and enhances the flavor.
Ensure your pan is hot before adding the scallops. This will give you a nice, golden-brown sear. A cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan works best.
Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam rather than sear, which affects texture.
Cook scallops on high heat for a short amount of time. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes per side will give you a nice crust while keeping the inside tender.
Scallops are done when they are opaque and have a firm texture. They should be slightly translucent in the center but not raw.
What to pair with Frontier Scallops
For pairing with frontier scallops, I always choose lemon garlic orzo and sautéed spinach. These options highlight the delicate flavors of the scallops and add a delightful freshness. But you can also try crème fraîche risotto; it’s perfect for adding a rich and creamy texture. For more variety, consider grilled zucchini or a tomato basil salad to bring a burst of flavor to your dish.

How to store
For pairing with frontier scallops, I always choose lemon garlic orzo and sautéed spinach. These options highlight the delicate flavors of the scallops and add a delightful freshness. But you can also try crème fraîche risotto; it’s perfect for adding a rich and creamy texture. For more variety, consider grilled zucchini or a tomato basil salad to bring a burst of flavor to your dish.
FAQ
How do I know when scallops are cooked?
Scallops are cooked when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should have a golden-brown crust on the outside while remaining tender and moist inside.
Can I make Frontier Scallops in advance?
While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the seasoning or marinade in advance. Cook the scallops just before serving for the best results.
Can I freeze Frontier Scallops?
While it’s possible to freeze cooked scallops, it’s generally better to cook them fresh. If freezing, place them in an airtight container and use them within a month for the best quality.
What spices are typically used in Frontier Scallops?
Common spices for Frontier Scallops include garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Customize the spices to your taste preferences.
Are Frontier Scallops healthy?
Yes, scallops are a healthy seafood option. They are low in fat and calories while providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Conclusion
Frontier Scallops are a delightful and versatile seafood dish that’s both quick to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, these scallops fit the bill perfectly. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Frontier Scallops Recipe
Course: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes8
minutes18
minutesThis Easy Frontier Scallops Recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal, featuring perfectly seared scallops with simple seasonings. It’s a gourmet experience that you can enjoy right at home.
Ingredients
1 pound sea scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the scallops.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the scallops are golden brown and opaque in the center.
- In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the scallops with fresh lemon juice.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the scallops before serving.