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
Scale
- 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.