Scallops, like other seafood, should not be cooked long enough to prevent them from becoming tough. The less you fry the scallops, the better. Before frying, scallops are marinated in a mixture of wine, olive oil, sugar, garlic, and chili.
Combine garlic, chili, wine, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Add 2 tbsp butter and scallops, stir gently, and marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature (or longer in the refrigerator).
Remove the scallops from the marinade with a slotted spoon. Do not pour out the marinade. Heat some olive oil in a nonstick skillet.
Cook the scallops over high heat, 1 minute on each side.
Remove from the pan, pour the marinade into it and boil for 3 minutes.
Pour the sauce over the scallops. Serve with the salted salad.