Miso Glazed Seared Scallops

Name: Miso Glazed Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb sea scallops; 2 tablespoons white miso paste; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Festive Favorites

When it comes to seafood, seared scallops have always been one of my favorite dishes to prepare. The combination of the rich, savory miso glaze with the delicate sweetness of the scallops creates an unforgettable flavor. I've experimented with several marinades, but this miso glaze stands out with its depth and umami. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a quiet evening at home, I find this dish elevates any occasion effortlessly.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:33:27.190Z

I distinctly remember the first time I made miso glazed scallops. The moment those succulent morsels hit the pan, the aroma filled my kitchen like a soft hug. I knew I had struck gold when I took the first bite. The perfect sear gave a satisfying contrast to the silky glaze. I always recommend ensuring your pan is nicely preheated, as this helps achieve that beautiful caramelization.

Sharing this dish with loved ones has brought moments of joy at our dinner table. Each scallop is beautifully tender, and when paired with a side of steamed vegetables, it creates a vibrant dining experience. Always make sure not to overcrowd your pan; giving your scallops some space allows for greater heat distribution and better results.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich miso flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of scallops
Quick and elegant dish perfect for impressing guests
Sear to perfection for a delightful contrast in textures

Understanding Scallops

When selecting sea scallops, look for a firm texture that feels slightly moist but not slimy. They should have a fresh, ocean-like scent. Avoid scallops that appear dry or have any off-putting odor. Sizing can vary, so a pound will generally yield about 10 to 12 scallops, perfect for a main course. The quality of your scallops directly impacts the final dish; fresh, sustainably sourced scallops make a compelling difference in flavor.

For the best results, ensure your scallops are completely dry before adding them to the skillet. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted golden-brown crust. Patting them with a paper towel not only enhances browning but also prevents steaming, which can occur if moisture remains. Remember, scallops cook quickly—overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture, so aim for a quick sear to lock in their natural flavor.

Perfecting the Miso Glaze

The combination of white miso paste, honey, and rice vinegar creates a deliciously balanced glaze that brings umami and sweetness to the dish. White miso, being milder than its darker counterparts, emphasizes the natural sweetness of the scallops without overwhelming their delicate flavor. Honey enriches the glaze with caramelized notes, while rice vinegar adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall taste profile.

To intensify the flavor profile, feel free to experiment with the ratios in the glaze—adjusting the honey for more sweetness or adding extra soy sauce for saltiness can yield nuanced flavors. Just remember to maintain a balance; taste the glaze after mixing, and fine-tune it to your personal preference before applying it to the scallops.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these miso glazed seared scallops over a bed of lightly dressed arugula or with a side of jasmine rice can elevate your dish significantly. The peppery arugula complements the sweetness of the scallops beautifully, while the rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the delicious glaze. Consider adding some sautéed vegetables or a light citrus salad for extra texture and freshness.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, you might consider serving the scallops as an elegant appetizer. Skewer smaller pieces with toothpicks for easy handling or present them on appetizer spoons for a sophisticated touch. However you choose to serve them, a drizzle of the leftover glaze and a sprinkle of green onions will make for an impressive display.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

1 lb sea scallops
2 tablespoons white miso paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped green onions, for garnish

With these ingredients prepared, you are ready to begin cooking!

Instructions

Let’s walk through each step to create this stunning dish.

Prepare the Miso Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. This glaze will coat your scallops beautifully.

Sear the Scallops

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel, then season with salt and pepper. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.

Glaze the Scallops

Once seared, brush the scallops generously with the miso glaze, allowing them to absorb the flavors for an additional minute on the heat.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the scallops to a serving platter, drizzle any remaining glaze over them, and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Your exquisite miso glazed scallops are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For the best results, always choose fresh, high-quality scallops. This will greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Additionally, having all ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Make-Ahead Options

While scallops are best when cooked fresh, the miso glaze can be prepared ahead of time. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld. Just before cooking, give it a good stir to recombine any ingredients that might separate. This makes the process quicker when you're ready to sear the scallops.

If you need to prepare scallops in advance, they can be thawed and kept in the fridge for about a day before cooking. However, try to avoid freeze-thaw cycles too frequent, as this can affect their texture. Always keep the scallops submerged in a bowl of cold water when thawing, changing the water every 30 minutes to maintain safe temperatures.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when searing scallops is sticking. If you find that they’re sticking to the skillet, ensure that the pan and oil are hot enough before adding the scallops. A properly heated pan creates a natural non-stick surface. If they still stick, allow them to cook a bit longer; they will release from the pan once they develop a good crust.

Another potential pitfall is overglazing. While the miso mixture is delicious, too much can overpower the natural flavors of the scallops. Use just enough glaze to coat each scallop lightly without drowning them. If you find you have excess glaze, consider serving it on the side, letting guests add as they desire—this way, you ensure everyone enjoys the perfect amount.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for alternatives to scallops, shrimp or firm tofu can serve as great substitutes in this miso glaze recipe. While they will require different cooking times—shrimp taking about 2-3 minutes per side and tofu generally a bit longer—you can still enjoy the same delicious flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to your chosen protein for best results.

For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce in the glaze, ensuring you can enjoy the delightful umami flavor without compromising dietary needs. Moreover, incorporating different miso types, such as red or brown miso, can yield varied flavor profiles, adding layers of taste that can surprise and delight your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.

→ What can I serve with miso glazed scallops?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pair beautifully, along with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ How do I know when the scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side.