Seared Scallops with asparagus is a delightful dish that combines the tender sweetness of perfectly cooked scallops with the crisp freshness of asparagus. This elegant meal is not only visually stunning but also bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. The contrast of textures and bright flavors creates a sophisticated dining experience that impresses both family and guests alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will absolutely adore this recipe because it strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and gourmet appeal. The scallops, when seared to perfection, offer a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the earthy tones of asparagus. This dish is quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it manageable even on busy evenings. Additionally, it’s naturally low-carb and high in protein, fitting seamlessly into a variety of diets, including paleo and keto lifestyles, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Tips and Tricks
1. Choosing the Right Scallops: Opt for dry-packed scallops over wet-packed ones. Dry scallops are fresher and have a better texture and flavor.
2. Patting Dry: Make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust.
3. High Heat: Use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, and ensure the pan is hot before adding the scallops to avoid steaming them.
4. Timing is Key: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Sear the scallops in batches if necessary.
5. Asparagus Prep: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus before cooking. They’ll naturally break where the tender part begins.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who like to prep in advance, you can wash and trim the asparagus up to a day ahead. Store it in a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Scallops are best cooked fresh, but if you’re short on time, you can season them and let them marinate for about 30 minutes in the fridge for enhanced flavor before cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill, or add a splash of lemon juice or white wine to the pan to enhance the flavor.
- Vegetable Swaps: Replace asparagus with other seasonal greens like green beans or snap peas for a different twist.
- Cooking Methods: Try grilling the scallops for a smoky flavor, or roast the asparagus in the oven for a more caramelized taste.
How to Serve
Serve the seared scallops on a bed of sautéed asparagus, drizzling a light lemon butter sauce over the top. For an added touch, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or microgreens. The dish can be beautifully plated on a white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the scallops and asparagus, making it visually appealing.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water with a wedge of lemon. Complementary side dishes include a citrus quinoa salad or a light arugula salad with a vinaigrette. For dessert, consider a light sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftover scallops and asparagus should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days for best flavor and texture. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. Freezing is not recommended as it can compromise the texture of the scallops.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel preferred)
- Tongs for flipping scallops
- Paper towels for drying scallops
- Cutting board and knife for prepping vegetables
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure all seasoning blends are certified gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. There are no nuts in this recipe, making it nut-free. For a vegan adaptation, swap scallops with marinated and seared king oyster mushrooms for a similar texture.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, opt for young asparagus, while during summer, consider adding fresh tomatoes or corn. In the fall, switch to roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for a cozy twist. Winter can feature hearty greens like kale or spinach, providing a different flavor profile.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. What’s the best way to tell if scallops are done? They should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch; a good sear will give them a golden crust.
3. Can I substitute asparagus with another vegetable? Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetable of your choice.
How To Make Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Seared Scallops with asparagus is a delightful dish that combines the tender sweetness of perfectly cooked scallops with the crisp freshness of asparagus.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh scallops
- 1 bunch of asparagus
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by prepping the asparagus. Snap off the woody ends and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the scallops to the skillet, ensuring they are not crowded. Sear for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip the scallops using tongs and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the scallops as they cook.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the asparagus and a splash of water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus and toss to coat.
- To serve, arrange the asparagus on plates, top with scallops, and garnish with parsley. Drizzle any remaining butter sauce from the pan over the top.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 240Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 62mgSodium 832mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 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
Seared scallops with asparagus is a dish that combines elegance with simplicity. It allows you to bring a taste of fine dining into your home without the fuss. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a delightful meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The flavors of the scallops and asparagus shine through with minimal ingredients, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite!
