This delightful Shrimp And Scallops recipe brings together the best of the sea in a harmonious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender, succulent shrimp and sweet, buttery scallops, this dish is elevated by a zesty garlic butter sauce that dances on your palate. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of shrimp and scallops offers a luxurious seafood experience without the need for complicated techniques. The garlic butter sauce is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a quick dish for unexpected guests.
Tips and Tricks
- Freshness Matters: Always use fresh shrimp and scallops for the best flavor. If using frozen seafood, ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- High Heat Cooking: Searing the seafood in a hot skillet gives you that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside tender. Preheat your pan well!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the shrimp and scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, which affects texture.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: For an extra zing, add a splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It enhances the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: This is the most common mistake. Shrimp should be cooked until they turn pink and opaque, while scallops should be golden brown on the outside but still tender inside.
- Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to pat dry the seafood can prevent it from searing properly. Make sure to remove excess moisture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the seafood.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply reheat it before adding the cooked seafood. If you’d like to marinate your shrimp and scallops, do so for about 15-30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings for added flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill into the sauce for a fresh twist.
- Coconut Milk Sauce: Swap the butter for coconut milk for a tropical flavor profile, perfect for a summer dish.
How to Serve
Serve the shrimp and scallops on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon for a pop of color. For an elegant presentation, serve on a white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the seafood and sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light cocktail such as a gin and tonic. For sides, consider a light arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. A light lemon sorbet can serve as a refreshing dessert to finish the meal.
How to Store
Leftover shrimp and scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and consume within 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or sauté pan for cooking
- A spatula for flipping the seafood
- A cutting board and knife for chopping garlic and garnishes
- Measuring spoons for accurate ingredient ratios
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. If you need to avoid seafood altogether, consider using firm tofu or seitan as a protein alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, use fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. In winter, serve with roasted root vegetables for a heartier meal. Fresh seasonal lemon and garlic will elevate the dish throughout the year.
Cost Breakdown
Estimated cost per serving is around $8-10, depending on the market price of shrimp and scallops. To save money, consider using frozen seafood, which can be just as flavorful as fresh.
Kitchen Hacks
- To peel shrimp quickly, use a kitchen shears to cut along the back, making it easy to remove the shell.
- Use a garlic press to mince garlic in seconds, saving you time and effort in prep.
Recipe FAQs
Can I substitute shrimp for another type of seafood? Yes! You can use any firm white fish or even lobster for a luxurious variation.
What is the best way to tell if scallops are done cooking? Scallops are done when they are opaque and have a golden crust on the outside.
Can I make this dish without butter? Absolutely! Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a healthier option.
How To Make shrimp and scallops recipe
Shrimp And Scallops
This delightful Shrimp And Scallops recipe brings together the best of the sea in a harmonious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by patting the shrimp and scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it’s hot and bubbling.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Season the shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and the scallops are golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze the skillet with the lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the bottom for added flavor.
- Return the shrimp and scallops to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 368Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 316mgSodium 1907mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 49g
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
This shrimp and scallops recipe is a true celebration of seafood that anyone can master. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll impress not only yourself but also your family and friends with this elegant dish. So go ahead, dive into this culinary adventure and enjoy the delicious flavors that the ocean has to offer!
