Scallops and Pasta – A Deliciously Elegant Meal

This Scallops And Pasta is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines the ocean’s delicacy with the comforting embrace of pasta. The tender scallops, seared to golden perfection, mingle with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky sauce that elevates the entire meal. Whether you’re looking to impress a date or treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at home, this dish is sure to delight with its harmonious flavors and stunning presentation.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the scallops contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of garlic and lemon, while the pasta adds a satisfying chewiness. It’s an elegant dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a great fit for those following a balanced diet, as it includes lean protein from the scallops and carbs from the pasta, making it a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Tips and Tricks

• Choose the Right Scallops: Opt for dry scallops over wet scallops, as they have a better texture and flavor. Wet scallops are often soaked in a solution that can affect their searing ability.
• Pasta Timing: Start cooking your pasta first, so it’s done around the same time as your scallops. This will ensure everything comes together perfectly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing scallops, make sure to give them space in the pan. This helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking Scallops: Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and opaque in the center.
• Insufficient Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Scallops need adequate seasoning to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Using the Wrong Pasta: While you can use any pasta, thin pasta like angel hair can overcook quickly. Opt for something more robust like fettuccine or linguine.

Make Ahead Tips

To save time, you can prep several components ahead of time. Clean and devein the scallops, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also cook the pasta in advance; just be sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you can quickly assemble the dish.

Recipe Variations

• Pasta Type: Switch up the pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier or allergy-friendly alternative.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or swap the lemon for lime for a zesty twist.

How to Serve

Serve the scallops and pasta in shallow bowls, drizzling the garlic sauce generously over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color. Consider pairing the dish with a side salad of mixed greens dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Pairing Suggestions

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the dish. For cocktails, a light gin and tonic complements the seafood nicely. If you’re in the mood for dessert, a lemon sorbet provides a refreshing finish after the rich pasta.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing the dish, as scallops can become rubbery when thawed.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for searing scallops
• Tongs for flipping scallops
• Colander for draining pasta

If you don’t have a skillet, a non-stick frying pan will work just fine.

Dietary Adaptations

For a vegan version, substitute scallops with pan-seared mushrooms or tofu and use vegan pasta. To make it dairy-free, simply omit any butter and replace it with olive oil. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

Seasonal Adaptations

In the spring and summer, incorporate fresh herbs like basil and arugula. In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for a heartier flavor. Winter calls for a touch of nutmeg or sage to enhance the dish’s warmth.

Cost Breakdown

This dish can be made for approximately $15-$20, serving 4 people—around $4-5 per serving. To save money, consider using frozen scallops or pasta from bulk bins.

Kitchen Hacks

• Peeling Garlic: Smash garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife for easy peeling.
• Cooking Pasta: Add a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water; this enhances flavor significantly.
• Perfect Scallops: Pat scallops dry with a paper towel before searing to achieve a better crust.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• What can I use instead of garlic? Shallots or onions can be used for a different flavor profile.
• How long do I cook the pasta? Follow package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente.

Continue to Content

Yield: 4

Scallops And Pasta

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This Scallops And Pasta is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines the ocean's delicacy with the comforting embrace of pasta. The tender scallops, seared to golden perfection, mingle with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky sauce that elevates the entire meal.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of dry sea scallops
• 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup of white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1.  Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Scallops: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Add the scallops to the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the white wine (if using) and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a minute.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Fold in the seared scallops and lemon zest, cooking for an additional minute to heat through.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 380Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 46mgSodium 841mgCarbohydrates 38gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 29g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

This scallops and pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the luxury of fine dining right into your kitchen. With its simplicity and elegance, it invites you to savor each bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with family and friends!