Scallops with Spice Oil

Ingredients for Scallops with Spice Oil

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 6 black peppercorns plus freshly ground for seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more

• 60ml olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon (or more) fresh lemon juice

• 1 1/2 tablespoons grapeseed or vegetable oil

• 8 large or 12 medium sea scallops, side muscle removed

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cups mixed coriander and flat-leaf parsley with tender stems

• Olive oil (for drizzling)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• A spice mill

How to make Scallops with Spice Oil

Grind first 4 ingredients and 1/2 teaspoons salt to a fine powder in spice mill. Transfer to a small saucepan over medium-low heat; add oil. Cook until oil begins to simmer, 2-3 minutes. Scrape into a small bowl; stir in garlic and lemon zest. Let cool for 5 minutes, then stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and more juice, if desired. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 week ahead. Cover; chill. Rewarm before using.

Heat grapeseed oil in a large heavy skillet over high heat until oil begins to smoke. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Sear until well browned, about 3 minutes. Turn; cook until just barely opaque in centre, about 30 seconds longer.

Meanwhile, place herbs in a medium bowl and drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over; season salad to taste with salt and pepper. Divide scallops between 2 plates; spoon 1 tablespoon spice oil over each plate (reserve remaining oil for another use). Garnish with salad.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.