🥭 Pan-Seared Scallops with Mango Passion Fruit Salsa

Perfectly caramelized sea scallops paired with a vibrant mango and passion fruit salsa create an elegant restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare. The sweetness of ripe mango, the tangy brightness of passion fruit, and the buttery richness of the scallops make this recipe ideal for date nights, summer dinners, or special occasions.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Scallops

• 1 lb (450 g) large sea scallops

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed

• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

Mango Passion Fruit Salsa

• 1 ripe mango, diced into small cubes

• 2 passion fruits, pulp only

• ¼ small red onion, finely diced

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp honey

• ½ small red chili, finely minced (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

• Microgreens

• Extra diced mango

• Fresh passion fruit pulp

• Lime wedges

• Fresh cracked black pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Salsa

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, passion fruit pulp, red onion, cilantro, and mint.

2. Add the lime juice and honey.

3. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Stir gently to combine.

5. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes while preparing the scallops.

Step 2 – Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels.

2. Remove the small side muscle if still attached.

3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Dry scallops are essential for achieving a beautiful golden crust.

Step 3 – Sear the Scallops

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.

2. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, leaving space between each one.

3. Cook for 2–3 minutes without moving them.

4. Flip the scallops.

5. Add the butter and crushed garlic.

6. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for another 1–2 minutes until just cooked through.

7. Remove immediately to avoid overcooking.

Step 4 – Plate

1. Spoon a line of mango passion fruit salsa onto a serving platter or individual plates.

2. Arrange the seared scallops on top or alongside the salsa.

3. Drizzle with a little of the buttery pan juices.

4. Finish with microgreens, extra passion fruit pulp, and freshly cracked black pepper.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This elegant dish pairs beautifully with:

• Coconut jasmine rice

• Lemon herb risotto

• Garlic butter asparagus

• Grilled vegetables

• Citrus quinoa salad

• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime

💡 Tips for Success

• Buy dry-packed sea scallops whenever possible—they sear much better than wet-packed scallops.

• Pat the scallops completely dry before seasoning.

• Use a very hot pan and avoid overcrowding it.

• Resist the urge to move the scallops while they are searing.

• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

❄️ Storage

• Best enjoyed immediately after cooking.

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day.

• Store the salsa separately from the scallops.

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.

🌴 Delicious Variations

• Replace mango with pineapple or peach.

• Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

• Mix in cucumber for added freshness.

• Sprinkle toasted macadamia nuts on top for crunch.

• Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.

⭐ Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pan-Seared Scallops with Mango Passion Fruit Salsa delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures:

• 🦪 Sweet, tender scallops with a golden crust

• 🥭 Fresh tropical mango and passion fruit salsa

• 🍋 Bright citrus notes that enhance the seafood

• 🌿 Fresh herbs for vibrant flavor

• 🍽️ Restaurant-quality presentation in under 30 minutes

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a romantic meal at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its stunning presentation and refreshing tropical flavors.