I’m so excited to share this scallops and pasta recipe with you all! It’s a family favorite that we’ve been making for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of succulent scallops, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and tender pasta is simply irresistible.
And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for a busy home cook like me. I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the fresh seafood and rich pasta dishes. This particular recipe has been adapted from a local chef who specializes in seafood cooking.
I’ve made it countless times since then, and my family loves it just as much as I do. In fact, my kids often request it for their birthday dinners! The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the scallops. Look for ones that are sustainably sourced and have a good texture.
The garlic butter sauce is also crucial – don’t skip it! Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Scallops can be expensive!’ And yes, they can be. But trust me, this recipe is worth every penny.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also relatively affordable compared to other seafood options. Plus, the portion sizes are generous enough that you’ll have plenty of leftovers for future meals. So if you’re looking for a new recipe to try tonight, look no further! This scallops and pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in mine.
Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Pasta
4.7 from 697 votes
Tender, golden seared scallops served over a bed of al dente linguine tossed in a light lemon garlic sauce. This elegant yet simple dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and white pepper.
5Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6Add the scallops in a single layer without crowding, and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms and the scallops are opaque in the center.
7Transfer the scallops to a plate and set aside.
8Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons olive oil.
9Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
10Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan with a wooden spoon, and let the liquid reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
11Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water and 2 tablespoons butter.
12Toss everything together over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta and the butter is melted.
13Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
14Divide the pasta among four plates and top each serving with the seared scallops.
15Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
For the best sear, ensure scallops are very dry before cooking and do not move them in the pan until the crust forms. You can substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.
Watch Video Of How Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Pasta Works
This scallops and pasta recipe is a game-changer for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal. The combination of succulent scallops, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and tender pasta is truly unbeatable.
And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to make! With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish will quickly become a staple in your household just like it has in mine.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Pasta
Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
A: For this recipe, I recommend using a short-cut pasta like penne or rigatoni. These shapes hold onto the creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly and pair well with the tender scallops.
Q: Can I substitute the scallops with another type of seafood?
A: While scallops are the star of this dish, you can definitely experiment with other types of seafood like shrimp or mussels if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the specific seafood you choose.
Q: How do I ensure my scallops are cooked through?
A: To check if your scallops are cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into one of them. They should register at 120°F (49°C) minimum when cooked properly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce and cook the pasta up to a day in advance. However, it’s best to cook the scallops just before serving to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
Q: Are there any variations on this recipe I can try?
A: One fun twist on this recipe is adding some chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves to the garlic butter sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
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