I have to tell you, making this recipe felt like crafting a five-star restaurant dish right in the comfort of my home. The combination of the perfectly seared scallops and the smoky sweetness of the corn puree was just magical.

It’s elegant yet so simple to put together, making me feel a little fancy without too much effort. I even used some leftover grilled corn, which gave it that extra touch of smoky goodness. Trust me, if you’re looking to impress, this dish will not disappoint!

Seared Scallops with Smoky Sweet Corn Puree

Credit: fromachefskitchen

Ingredients

4 slices bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
Tip: Crisp bacon adds a smoky, crispy texture to the dish.
1 tablespoon butter
Tip: Butter enhances the caramelized flavor of the scallops and the corn puree.
1 bunch scallions (white and light green parts only), chopped
Pro Tip: Use fresh scallions for their mildly sweet, onion-like flavor.
3 ears of corn (grilled or blanched), kernels removed
Tip: Grilled corn brings an irresistible smoky flavor.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Note: Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer puree.
½ cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Idea: Heavy cream will make the puree extra velvety.
Cayenne pepper, to taste
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 large sea scallops, patted dry
Pro Tip: Opt for “dry” sea scallops to avoid added moisture.
1–2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Tip: This adds depth and complements the sweetness of the corn.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish

Note
This recipe serves 2 people generously. Double accordingly for more guests.

Variations

Put your own spin on this dish with these ideas:

Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and replace half-and-half with coconut cream.
Seasonal Add-Ins: Add diced, roasted poblano peppers for a mild kick or fresh cilantro as a garnish.
Protein Swap: Substitute scallops with shrimp or pan-seared tofu for a different flavor profile.
Spicier Version: Add a touch of smoked chipotle powder to the corn puree for more heat.

For a different take on flavors, you might enjoy this sweet jalapeño pineapple boneless wings recipe.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Nonstick skillet – For searing scallops without sticking.
Sharp chef’s knife – To slice scallions and remove corn kernels neatly.
Cutting board – A sturdy surface for prepping veggies and bacon.
Food processor or blender – To make the corn puree smooth and creamy.
Mixing spoon – For stirring the puree without lumps.

How to Make Seared Scallops with Smoky Sweet Corn Puree?

Prepare the Bacon and Scallion Base

Start by cooking the bacon pieces in a medium skillet over medium heat until they’re crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving a tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet. Next, add butter to the bacon grease and sauté the chopped scallions until softened, for about 2-3 minutes.

Make the Corn Puree

Add the corn kernels, cream cheese, and half-and-half to the skillet with the scallions. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the cream cheese melts into the corn, creating a smooth consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a hint of spice. Transfer half of this mixture to a food processor and blend until creamy, leaving some of the corn’s texture intact. Stir the blended mixture back into the skillet and keep warm.

Sear the Scallops

Heat a teaspoon of bacon fat in a separate nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels, then season with smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.

Assemble the Dish

Stir some chopped chives and half of the reserved crispy bacon into the smoky corn puree. Plate the puree first, spreading it as a base onto your serving dishes. Place the seared scallops on top, then garnish with the remaining bacon bits and extra fresh chives for presentation.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way to get the best results:

Dry Scallops Are Key: Pat those scallops completely dry to get a good sear and caramelized crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear scallops in batches if needed to avoid steaming them.
High-Heat Sear: Use medium-high or high heat for a quick and effective sear without overcooking.
Adjust the Puree Consistency: If you want a thinner puree, simply add a splash of half-and-half or water when blending.

How to Serve Seared Scallops with Smoky Sweet Corn Puree?

To serve this stunning dish, distribute the puree evenly between plates and stack the scallops artfully on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives and a final pinch of smoked paprika for color. Serving with a crisp glass of white wine or a warm, crusty baguette will take this meal to the next level. For more hearty and comforting dishes, check out this pesto chicken pasta recipe.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this recipe contains approximately:

Calories: 387
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fat: 29g

This dish is satisfying yet light, making it perfect for a date night or a special occasion dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: The corn puree can be prepared a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Freezing: Although best fresh, the puree can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the puree gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to restore its creamy texture.

Note
Scallops are best served fresh and should not be reheated, as they tend to become rubbery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this recipe will become a favorite in your home:

Quick and Simple: It takes just 30 minutes for an impressive dish.
Elegant Presentation: Perfect for a romantic dinner or entertaining guests.
Customizable Ingredients: Use what you have on hand to tailor the flavors.
Balanced Flavors: The smoky, sweet, and savory notes are perfectly harmonized.
Healthy yet Indulgent: Light on carbs but rich in flavor and protein.

Enjoy the perfect bite of tender scallops paired with a luscious corn puree. This dish is bound to wow your taste buds and your dinner guests! Whether it’s for a special night or just a treat-yourself meal, you can’t go wrong. You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell