As I stirred the pot, a burst of savory aromas filled the air, instantly whisking me away to coastal towns where fresh seafood meets hearty pasta. This Sea Scallops Pasta recipe is a beautiful culmination of two culinary loves: perfectly seared scallops nestled in a creamy, garlicky sauce, coated over tender pasta. What makes this dish truly special is not just its elegant presentation, but also how effortlessly it elevates a weekday dinner into a special occasion. With a quick prep time and simple ingredients, anyone can impress their family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to dive into this delightful fusion of flavors and bring a taste of the seaside to your home?
Why Is This Sea Scallops Pasta a Must-Try?
Elevated Dining Experience: This dish transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal, making it perfect for impressing guests or celebrating special occasions at home.
Quick and Easy: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the stress.
Savory and Creamy: The rich combination of garlic, heavy cream, and white wine elevates the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal, or enjoy it as a standalone star!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this Sea Scallops Pasta is sure to win hearts and fill bellies.
So, why settle for fast food when you can whip up this irresistible dish that brings the essence of the coast to your table?
Sea Scallops Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Pasta – 8 ounces of your favorite type, such as fettuccine or linguine, creates a perfect base for the dish.
For the Scallops
• Scallops – 1 cup of fresh sea scallops brings a touch of the ocean right to your plate, ensuring an unforgettable meal.
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon is used to sear the scallops until golden brown and delicious.
For the Cream Sauce
• Heavy Cream – 1 cup adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce, making it wonderfully indulgent.
• Garlic – 1 cup minced infuses the dish with robust flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
• White Wine – 1 cup helps deglaze the pan and adds a hint of acidity to balance the creaminess.
For Seasoning
• Fresh Herbs – 2 tablespoons, like parsley or basil, offer a fresh burst of color and flavor to finish the dish beautifully.
• Salt – 1 tablespoon is necessary to enhance all the flavors and draw out the dish's natural taste.
• Pepper – 1 tablespoon adds just the right amount of heat to elevate the dish.
Now, you're all set to gather these Sea Scallops Pasta ingredients and whisk everyone away to a charming culinary getaway!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Scallops Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of your favorite pasta—like fettuccine or linguine—and cook according to the package instructions for al dente texture, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing the steam to escape and keeping it warm.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add 1 cup of fresh sea scallops to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust, becoming opaque in the center. Once perfect, remove the scallops and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 cup of minced garlic to the residual oil. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant and lightly golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This aromatic base will elevate your Sea Scallops Pasta, setting the stage for the creamy sauce that follows.
Step 4: Add White Wine
Pour in 1 cup of white wine, stirring to deglaze the skillet and lift the flavorful bits stuck on the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, cooking until it reduces slightly and the sharpness dissipates, creating a rich foundation for your sauce. The mixture should bubble gently, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 5: Combine the Cream
Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and mix well until fully combined with the wine and garlic. Let the sauce simmer for about 4-5 minutes on low heat, allowing it to thicken and develop a velvety texture. You'll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon beautifully. This creamy mixture is the heart of your Sea Scallops Pasta.
Step 6: Return Scallops and Season
Gently return the seared scallops to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce to reheat and soak up flavors. Then season with 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly. Keep the skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, ensuring everything is warm and well-coated but not overcooked.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, carefully tossing it with the scallops and sauce until everything is combined evenly. Let it cook together for another minute, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the creamy sauce. This step is essential for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors in your Sea Scallops Pasta.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped herbs—like parsley or basil—adding a burst of color and flavor. Serve your Sea Scallops Pasta hot, optionally drizzling a little extra olive oil on top for richness. The elegant presentation and enticing aroma will surely impress everyone at the table!
How to Store and Freeze Sea Scallops Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Sea Scallops Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze it, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Refrigeration Tip: For best results, store the scallops separately from the pasta if possible, as they are best enjoyed fresh and can become rubbery when reheated.
Make Ahead Options
These Sea Scallops Pasta are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and prepare the creamy sauce with scallops up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in your refrigerator. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the pasta and sauce properly before refrigerating to prevent mushiness and stickiness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on low heat before adding the scallops for a few minutes to warm through, then combine with the pasta for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Experience the delightful flavors of seafood and cream without the last-minute rush!
Sea Scallops Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Sea Scallops Pasta recipe; your personalized twists will make it even more delightful!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a creamy texture without dairy. The slight coconut flavor adds a new dimension to the dish.
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Vegetarian: Swap out the scallops for sautéed mushrooms or tempeh to maintain a hearty and fulfilling texture, perfect for plant-based eaters.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing for a bit of heat. It transforms the dish into a flavor fiesta that spice lovers will adore!
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a squeeze of lemon or lime juice into the sauce for a refreshing brightness. This adds a zing that perfectly complements the creamy elements.
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Flavor Boost: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the sauce for a Mediterranean twist. The saltiness of olives paired with the creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering balance.
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Noodle Swap: Use zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta for a lighter, healthier option that still feels indulgent! Each offers a unique texture without sacrificing flavor.
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Seafood Medley: Toss in shrimp or lobster along with the scallops to create a luxurious seafood blend that impresses any crowd. Add a splash more cream to ensure extra richness!
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to suit your taste, or even roast some whole cloves to incorporate into the cream sauce for a sweeter, milder flavor.
If you love pasta with a twist, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or perhaps a side of garlic bread to truly round out the meal. If you're looking for more inspiration in the pasta world, check out my Pasta Bake Pumpkin or a comforting Tomato Zucchini Pasta. Each of these dishes brings its unique charm to the table!
What to Serve with Sea Scallops Pasta?
Dive into a culinary escape with these delightful pairings that will elevate your dinner experience.
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Garlic Bread: This crunchy, buttery delight is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It's an irresistible crunchy contrast to the tender pasta.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the scallops and cream, adding brightness to your meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds a fresh, slight bitterness that perfectly complements the dish's creaminess. Plus, it’s a visual treat on the plate.
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Lemon Zest: Sprinkling a bit of lemon zest over the dish enhances the flavors and adds a burst of citrus freshness. It's like sunshine on your plate!
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of dry Chardonnay brings out the wine used in the sauce, harmonizing beautifully with the delicate flavors of the scallops.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish your dining experience on a sweet note with a rich, velvety mousse. Its luxurious texture pairs wonderfully after the savory scallops dish.
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Roasted Broccoli: The natural sweetness and slight crispness of roasted broccoli add an earthiness that perfectly balances the creaminess in your Sea Scallops Pasta.
Each of these pairings adds its own unique flavor, ensuring your dinner is a feast for the senses!
Tips for the Best Sea Scallops Pasta
Perfectly Sear Scallops: Ensure your scallops are dry before adding them to the pan; this prevents steaming and helps achieve a nice golden crust.
Wine Choice Matters: Use a dry white wine for the sauce; sweeter wines can overly sweeten the dish. Choose something you’d enjoy drinking!
Timing is Key: Don’t overcook the scallops; they should be opaque in the center but still tender. Keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery scallops!
Pasta Primed: Toss the pasta in the sauce immediately after cooking. This allows it to absorb the flavors of the cream and white wine, enhancing your Sea Scallops Pasta experience.
Herbs for Freshness: Feel free to mix and match fresh herbs for garnishing. Basil, parsley, or even chives can add unique flavors to your dish!
Sea Scallops Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallops for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, look for fresh, plump ones with a slightly sweet smell of the ocean. They should be creamy white to slightly beige in color and free from dark spots or discoloration. Fresh scallops should be firm to the touch, so avoid those that feel mushy or have a strong fishy odor.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After enjoying your Sea Scallops Pasta, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool down completely to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Sea Scallops Pasta?
Yes! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze your Sea Scallops Pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently in a skillet, adding a little cream or water to loosen the sauce.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Perfectly understandable! If your cream sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply whisk in a bit of additional heavy cream or a splash of white wine. This will help achieve a luscious consistency. Keep stirring over low heat until you reach your desired texture. Always remember to do this gently to avoid overcooking the scallops.
Is this recipe safe for my pet?
Great question! While Sea Scallops themselves are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, this recipe involves ingredients not suitable for pets, like garlic and heavy cream. If you want to share some scallops with your furry friend, cook them plain without seasoning or sauce, and remember to consult your vet for personalized advice!
Creamy Sea Scallops Pasta That Elevates Your Dinner Game
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta such as fettuccine or linguine
For the Scallops
- 1 cup sea scallops fresh
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream adds richness
- 1 cup garlic minced
- 1 cup white wine for deglazing
For Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs like parsley or basil
- 1 tablespoon salt to enhance flavors
- 1 tablespoon pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions, 8-10 minutes, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes each side until golden brown.
- Sauté garlic in the residual oil in the skillet for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add white wine to the skillet, deglaze, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
- Return scallops to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and heat through.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and scallops.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot, optionally drizzling with extra olive oil.
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