Scallop Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that elevates the classic flavors of garlic, butter, and white wine, perfectly complementing the sweet, tender scallops. This dish is not only a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients but also an invitation to indulge in a quick yet sophisticated dinner option. The delicate scallops, seared to perfection, create a delightful contrast to the rich and aromatic sauce, making it an appealing choice for both special occasions and weeknight meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Scallop Scampi recipe is a showstopper, bursting with flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare. The cooking process takes less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect dish for those busy evenings or spontaneous dinner parties. The combination of garlic and white wine enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that is both comforting and refined. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it a great fit for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose Fresh Scallops: Always opt for fresh, dry-packed scallops if possible; they have a better flavor and texture compared to wet scallops, which are often treated with preservatives.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels before searing them. This helps achieve that beautiful caramelization and prevents steaming.
- High Heat: Use high heat for a quick sear. This locks in moisture and enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, preventing a good sear.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil at the end enhances flavor and adds a pop of color.
Make Ahead Tips
While scallops are best cooked fresh, you can prep several components ahead of time. Mince the garlic and chop your herbs a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. You can also measure out your wine and butter, ensuring everything is ready for a quick assembly when you’re ready to cook. If you plan to enjoy leftovers, store the cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: For a heartier dish, consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or spinach to the scampi sauce.
- Pasta Option: Serve the scallops over a bed of linguine or zucchini noodles for a delicious twist.
- Herb Swaps: Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives to change the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic for a spicy version of the dish.
How to Serve
For an elegant presentation, serve the Scallop Scampi over a bed of lightly buttered linguine, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Drizzle the rich sauce over the scallops and pasta, making sure to include a few toasted garlic bread slices on the side. This not only complements the dish but also provides a delightful way to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
A crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with Scallop Scampi, accentuating the dish’s citrus and garlic flavors. If you prefer cocktails, a light gin and tonic with a splash of lemon works wonders. Consider a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complete your meal. For dessert, a light panna cotta or lemon sorbet would round out the dining experience perfectly.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of white wine or broth to ensure the scallops don’t become overcooked. Avoid freezing cooked scallops, as they can become rubbery when thawed.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet or Saute Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for searing the scallops.
- Spatula or Tongs: For flipping the scallops without breaking them.
- Measuring Cups/Spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure any pasta you use is certified gluten-free.
- Allergen-Friendly: To make it nut-free, simply ensure no nut oils or ingredients are used in the cooking process.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, fresh herbs like basil and parsley are abundant and can be added for a vibrant taste. In the fall and winter, consider using dried herbs and spices like thyme or oregano to deepen the flavor profile, especially if fresh herbs are hard to find.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.
- What can I substitute for white wine? Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
- How do I know when scallops are done? They should be opaque and have a slightly firm texture.
How To Make Scallop Scampi
Scallop Scampi
Scallop Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that elevates the classic flavors of garlic, butter, and white wine, perfectly complementing the sweet, tender scallops.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the scallops in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Add the lemon juice and zest, and stir to combine.
- Return the scallops to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 300Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 69mgSodium 835mgCarbohydrates 11gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 24g
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.
Final Thoughts
Making Scallop Scampi is a delightful culinary experience that is surprisingly easy and incredibly satisfying. With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, Scallop Scampi offers a taste of luxury without the fuss. I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this dish as much as I do!
