The moment you take a whiff of sizzling scallops mingling with al dente pasta, you know magic is happening in your kitchen. The buttery aroma wafts through the air, promising a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat.
Quick scallops with pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Picture yourself whipping this up on a weekday evening, feeling like a gourmet chef minus the Michelin star pressure. Whether it’s date night or a casual family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick scallops with pasta come together in under 30 minutes, making dinner prep a breeze
- The burst of flavors from fresh herbs and garlic elevates the dish beyond ordinary
- Visual appeal is off the charts with golden-brown scallops nestled among colorful veggies
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to elegant gatherings
I remember the first time I made quick scallops with pasta for my friends. Their faces lit up as they took their first bites, and one friend even declared it “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Scallops: Look for plump, translucent scallops that smell like the ocean—avoid any that have a fishy odor.
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti or linguine for an ideal balance of texture and sauce adherence.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch in flavor; don’t skimp on it!
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it makes all the difference.
Fresh Herbs (like parsley): Fresh herbs brighten the dish; add them just before serving for maximum aroma.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make quick scallops with pasta
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—don’t let it brown!
Sear the Scallops: Gently pat dry your scallops and season them with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Toss Everything Together: Once your pasta is ready, drain it and reserve some cooking water. Add pasta to the skillet along with lemon juice and reserved water, tossing everything together gently.
Add Final Touches: Stir in freshly chopped herbs and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with more herbs if desired.
This recipe captures simple yet sophisticated flavors that can impress even the toughest critic at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite of this culinary masterpiece!
You Must Know
- Quick scallops with pasta is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor
- The combination of tender scallops and al dente pasta creates a satisfying texture
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices to elevate your meal
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the scallops first for a crispy exterior, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pasta types or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat scallops dry before cooking to achieve that beautiful sear
- Use fresh herbs for brighter flavors, and avoid overcooking them; they only need a few minutes each side
- Remember that a splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the entire dish!
Cooking quick scallops with pasta has become my go-to dish for impressing friends. I remember one dinner party when guests couldn’t believe I whipped it up in under 30 minutes!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for quick scallops with pasta?
Linguine or spaghetti complements scallops perfectly, allowing sauce to cling beautifully.
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw them properly before cooking for optimal texture and flavor.
What wine pairs well with quick scallops with pasta?
A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the seafood’s flavors delightfully.
Quick Scallops with Pasta
Quick Scallops with Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the sea to your plate in under 30 minutes. This elegant yet simple recipe combines perfectly seared scallops with al dente pasta, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice for a burst of flavor. Ideal for date night or a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to impress guests and elevate your culinary game without the stress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb fresh scallops
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving some cooking water.
- 2. Prepare Sauce Base: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- 3. Sear the Scallops: Pat dry scallops, season with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 4. Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Gently toss to combine.
- 5. Final Touches: Stir in parsley and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 502
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne. Add veggies such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
