Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Fresh New Zealand paua (abalone) pan-seared and served with a rich garlic and seaweed-infused butter that evokes the coastal flavors of Taranaki. This seafood-inspired quick meals ready in about 18 minutes blends about 3 oz each paua (abalone) steaks, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, minced into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves 3 Seafood cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Rinse 6 paua steaks under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add paua steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove from pan and keep warm.
  3. Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 5 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp crushed dried wakame seaweed to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until butter is melted and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives. Pour the seaweed garlic butter sauce over the paua steaks and serve immediately with crusty bread or steamed greens.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 18 minutes (10 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Paua with Garlic and Seaweed Butter Sauce?

Seafood quick meals like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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