Seared Scallops

Seared scallops are a delightful dish that brings elegance and flavor to any meal. Perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or even a cozy night in, this recipe showcases the rich taste of scallops paired with fresh asparagus and hearty quinoa. The highlight is the luscious lemon butter cream sauce that ties everything together, making it both satisfying and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of seared scallops and lemon butter cream sauce creates a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from scallops and nutrients from quinoa and asparagus, this bowl is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an upscale gathering.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful bowl of seared scallops, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you achieve perfectly cooked scallops and a creamy sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or grill
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Serving bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or grill: A good skillet or grill allows even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the scallops.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the smooth lemon butter cream sauce without clumps.
• Whisk: A whisk is crucial for combining the ingredients in the sauce smoothly.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the flavors are just right.

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

First, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
1. Add olive oil to your skillet.
2. Place the seasoned scallops in the skillet.
3. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once melted, whisk in heavy cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
1. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth.
2. Cook until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked quinoa and steamed asparagus among serving bowls.
1. Top each bowl with seared scallops.
2. Drizzle generously with lemon butter cream sauce.

Enjoy your delicious seared scallop bowl!

How to Serve Seared Scallops

Serving seared scallops can elevate your meal and impress your guests. With their delicate flavor and buttery texture, they pair well with various sides and sauces. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery, fresh complement to the scallops.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Mix spinach, strawberries, and feta cheese for a sweet and savory pairing.

Serve with Grain Bowls

• Quinoa Bowl: Use cooked quinoa as a base, topped with seared scallops and vegetables for a healthy option.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs the flavors of the scallops beautifully.

Drizzle with Sauces

• Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: A rich sauce that enhances the scallops’ natural flavor while adding creaminess.
• Chimichurri Sauce: This zesty sauce brings a fresh herb flavor that contrasts nicely with the scallops.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops

Perfecting seared scallops requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out beautifully every time.

• Choose Fresh Scallops: Freshness is key for the best flavor. Look for firm, slightly translucent scallops without any fishy smell.
• Pat Dry Before Cooking: Moisture can prevent a good sear. Use paper towels to pat the scallops dry before seasoning.
• Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan is essential for a perfect crust. Ensure your skillet or grill is at medium-high heat before adding the scallops.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of searing.
• Use High Smoke Point Oil: Olive oil works well, but oils like grapeseed or avocado oil can handle higher temperatures without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops

When serving seared scallops, consider adding side dishes that complement their delicate taste. Here are some excellent options to complete your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with seafood.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor alongside the tender scallops.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus not only looks great but also adds freshness to your plate.
4. Saffron Risotto: The creamy texture of risotto combined with saffron’s unique flavor creates an elegant dish.
5. Citrus Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with citrus zest brightens up the meal while offering lightness.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil makes for a light side dish without overpowering the scallops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking seared scallops can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the pan: When cooking scallops, avoid placing too many in the pan at once. This can lower the temperature and cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches for best results.

• Not drying the scallops: Wet scallops won’t brown properly. Always pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking to achieve that perfect sear.

• Using low heat: Cooking at low temperatures can lead to rubbery scallops. For a golden crust, make sure your skillet or grill is preheated to medium-high heat.

• Skipping seasoning: Seasoning is key! Don’t skip salt and pepper; they enhance the natural flavor of the scallops. Season generously before cooking for rich flavor.

• Cooking too long: Overcooking scallops makes them tough. Sear for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover seared scallops in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Scallops

• Place cooked scallops in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Seared Scallops

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place scallops on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short intervals at medium power, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add scallops just until warmed through, about 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making seared scallops.

What type of scallops should I use?

For this recipe, sea scallops are preferred due to their size and sweetness. Bay scallops can also work but may require less cooking time.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry after thawing for better searing results.

How do I know when my seared scallops are done?

They should be opaque and firm when done. Overcooked scallops become rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

What can I serve with seared scallops?

These delicious seafood bites pair well with various sides like quinoa, asparagus, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This seared scallops, asparagus, and quinoa bowl is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce’s flavor profile. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!