Seared Scallops with White Wine Cream Sauce is a luxurious dish that brings the taste of the ocean directly to your dining table. With perfectly caramelized scallops that boast a sweet, buttery flavor, this dish is beautifully complemented by a silky white wine cream sauce that adds depth and richness. The combination creates a sophisticated meal that is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this recipe not only for its exquisite flavors but also for its simplicity. Scallops are quick to cook, taking just a few minutes to achieve a golden brown crust, while the white wine cream sauce elevates the dish to gourmet status without requiring advanced culinary skills. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress guests or treat themselves to a restaurant-quality meal at home, all while adhering to a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Dry Scallops: Opt for dry scallops instead of wet ones for a better sear and flavor. Wet scallops are treated with preservatives, which can affect the cooking process.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. This ensures a perfect sear and prevents them from steaming in the pan.
- High Heat: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet and sear the scallops over high heat to achieve that delicious caramelization.
- Timing is Key: Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque in the center. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prep certain elements in advance. The white wine cream sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. Scallops should be cooked fresh, but you can clean and season them ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. If you do this, they should be cooked within a few hours to maintain freshness.
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Butter: Instead of a cream sauce, you can finish the scallops with a herb-infused butter for a lighter option.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cream sauce for a refreshing citrus kick.
- Saffron: Infuse the sauce with saffron for a unique flavor and beautiful color.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace scallops with seared portobello mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
How to Serve
Serve the seared scallops atop a bed of creamy risotto or alongside sautéed asparagus for a well-rounded plate. Drizzle the white wine cream sauce over the scallops and garnish with fresh herbs. For an elegant touch, use a large white plate to highlight the dish’s colors and textures, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay that complements the flavors of the scallops. For a cocktail option, a classic gin and tonic or a light mojito would work beautifully. As for side dishes, consider a simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables. For dessert, a light panna cotta or a fruit sorbet would be the perfect finish.
How to Store
Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The white wine cream sauce can be stored separately for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat and reheat the scallops in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to rubbery scallops.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan for searing
- Saucepan for making the cream sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A sharp knife for preparation
- A cutting board
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. To make it gluten-free, ensure that your white wine and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free. For a vegan option, use the suggested portobello mushroom variation in place of scallops and a plant-based cream substitute.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, add fresh herbs like basil or dill to the cream sauce for a vibrant flavor. In fall and winter, consider adding roasted root vegetables as a side to complement the dish’s richness.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for optimal results.
- What type of wine should I use? A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal.
- How long do scallops take to cook? They typically take about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Can I make this recipe without cream? Yes! You can create a lighter sauce using a reduction of wine and broth.
How To Make Seared Scallops with White Wine Cream Sauce
Seared Scallops with White Wine Cream Sauce
Seared Scallops with White Wine Cream Sauce is a luxurious dish that brings the taste of the ocean directly to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the scallops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until a golden crust forms.
- Flip the scallops and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until they are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic, cooking 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 until reduced by half.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the scallops to the skillet, gently coating them in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 345Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 88mgSodium 864mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 25g
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 white wine cream sauce is a dish that combines elegance with simplicity, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. With a few straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. The balance of flavors, textures, and presentation is sure to delight, and the satisfaction of making such a sumptuous dish at home is unmatched. Enjoy this culinary adventure and savor every bite!
