Seared Scallops

Seared Scallops are a delightful choice for any meal, offering a luxurious yet simple flavor profile that suits both casual dinners and special occasions. This dish features perfectly cooked scallops paired with vibrant asparagus and hearty quinoa, all brought together by a rich lemon butter cream sauce. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal cooking time, you can have this elegant dish ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet, delicate flavor of seared scallops pairs beautifully with the nutty quinoa and fresh asparagus.
• Versatile Meal: Whether as a main course or part of a larger spread, it works well for both intimate dinners and gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this bowl is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to personalize the dish to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Seared Scallops recipe, having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or grill
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or grill: Ideal for searing the scallops evenly, giving them that perfect golden crust.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the lemon butter cream sauce until it’s smooth and creamy.
• Saucepan: Necessary for preparing the sauce without burning it or altering its texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup steamed asparagus

For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Seared Scallops

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

1. Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet/grill.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
2. Whisk in heavy cream until combined smoothly.
3. Stir in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook while stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide cooked quinoa among serving bowls.
2. Add steamed asparagus on top of the quinoa.
3. Place seared scallops over the vegetables.
4. Drizzle generously with lemon butter cream sauce before serving.

Enjoy this exquisite Seared Scallops dish that combines elegance with ease!

How to Serve Seared Scallops

Seared scallops are a delightful seafood dish that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests.

Serve with Fresh Greens

• Use a bed of mixed greens or arugula as a base. The peppery notes complement the sweetness of the scallops beautifully.

Pair with Citrus Segments

• Adding orange or grapefruit segments can brighten up the dish. The acidity balances the richness of the scallops and sauce.

Accompany with Grains

• Serve over a warm grain such as quinoa or farro. These provide texture and absorb the flavors of the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of chopped parsley, dill, or chives adds freshness and color. It also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a tangy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory scallops. This elevates your dish to a gourmet level.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops

Perfectly seared scallops require attention to detail for the best results. Follow these tips for an exquisite dish every time.

• Choose Fresh Scallops: Freshness is key; look for scallops that are firm and have a sweet ocean smell.

• Pat Dry Before Cooking: Drying scallops ensures they sear properly and develop that beautiful golden crust.

• Preheat Your Pan: A hot skillet is essential for achieving a good sear. Test by adding a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature and prevents proper browning.

• Use Minimal Seasoning: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper allow the natural flavor of the scallops to shine through.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops

Pairing seared scallops with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance to your dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add color and flavor, making them an ideal companion.
3. Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh herbs and lemon zest brings brightness to your plate.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers crunch and nutrition while allowing the scallop flavors to take center stage.
5. Cauliflower Puree: Smooth cauliflower puree is a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, adding elegance to your meal.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic provides a nutritious green element that complements seafood well.
7. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette can serve as a light side option.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a gluten-free option that pairs well without overshadowing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making seared scallops can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the scallops adequately can result in blandness. Always season them just before cooking for the best flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many scallops in the pan at once can lower the temperature, causing steaming instead of searing. Cook them in batches for a perfect crust.
• Ignoring the heat: If your skillet isn’t hot enough, you won’t achieve that beautiful sear. Preheat your skillet thoroughly before adding the scallops.
• Timing issues: Overcooking scallops can make them rubbery. Sear each side for only 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and opaque.
• Neglecting rest time: Cutting into scallops immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let them rest briefly to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked seared scallops in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Scallops

• Place cooled scallops in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Seared Scallops

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place scallops on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Warm the scallops gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding seared scallops that may help you master this dish.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What sides pair well with seared scallops?

Seared scallops go wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or any grain like quinoa or rice.

How do I know when my scallops are done?

Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch. They should also have a golden brown crust on the outside.

Can I substitute other proteins for seared scallops?

Absolutely! You can replace them with shrimp or chicken if preferred, although adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is the best way to store leftover seared scallops?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage as described above.

Final Thoughts

This Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or grains based on your preference. It’s an easy way to impress guests or enjoy a gourmet meal at home!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Seared Scallops with Asparagus and Quinoa

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the culinary delight of Seared Scallops, a dish that combines elegance and simplicity for an exquisite dining experience. This recipe features perfectly seared scallops served alongside vibrant asparagus and nutritious quinoa, all generously drizzled with a rich lemon butter cream sauce. Ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, this flavorful seafood bowl offers a balance of textures and tastes that will impress your guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick yet gourmet meal option that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup steamed asparagus
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in heavy cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. To serve, layer cooked quinoa in bowls topped with steamed asparagus and seared scallops. Drizzle with lemon butter cream sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 110mg