Today I prepared seared scallops tossed with cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and scallions. This simple dish with herbs and spices is great for a summery seafood dinner. It can be served as a starter or main. Nothing melts in your mouth quite like tender- crisp and spicy tasted scallops.

Ingredients: 

• 10-12 sea scallops (large size)
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon sesame sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• 3-4 fresh green chili, cut in half through the stem
• 1 cup spring onion, cut in small 2” pieces
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, crushed
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 tablespoon sesame oil as needed
• Sea salt as needed

Method: 

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, arrange the scallops evenly in the pan, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown on each side. Set aside.

Tip: Add more oil if needed    

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sesame seeds, and cook until onions get softened. Add garlic and cook until it gets fragrant. Add sesame sauce, chili flakes, tomatoes, and sea salt, then stir rapidly and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes have left their juices. Then combine basil, green chili, spring onion, and scallops, and let it simmer for about 1 minute. Turn off the heat, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.