Seared Scallops

Seared Scallops are a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of perfectly cooked scallops, creamy lemon butter sauce, and nutritious quinoa. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering. With its balance of textures and flavors, this Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl is bound to impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and buttery cream creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the scallops.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With quinoa and asparagus, you get a healthy dose of protein and vitamins in each serving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Elegant Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this bowl visually stunning for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Seared Scallops recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or grill: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on the scallops, locking in flavor while providing a beautiful crust.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth Lemon Butter Cream Sauce by thoroughly combining all ingredients without lumps.

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 grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the seasoned scallops on the hot grill or skillet.
4. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

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

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked quinoa evenly among serving bowls.
2. Add steamed asparagus on top of the quinoa.
3. Place the seared scallops over the asparagus.
4. Drizzle generously with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce before serving.

This Seared Scallops recipe offers a wonderful blend of flavors that is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

How to Serve Seared Scallops

Seared scallops are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the scallops atop a fresh mix of arugula, spinach, or kale for a light and refreshing meal.

With Citrus Salsa

• Combine diced oranges and grapefruits with red onion and cilantro for a zesty salsa that complements the scallops perfectly.

Over Creamy Risotto

• Pair the scallops with creamy risotto made from arborio rice, adding a rich texture and flavor to the dish.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Offer crispy garlic bread on the side for a delicious way to soak up any remaining sauce from your plate.

In Tacos

• Create seafood tacos by placing seared scallops in corn tortillas with avocado and cabbage slaw for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops

Perfecting seared scallops is all about technique. Follow these tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Use dry scallops: Always choose dry sea scallops instead of wet ones for better searing without excess moisture.

• Preheat your pan: Ensure your skillet or grill is hot enough before adding the scallops. A properly heated surface creates that perfect golden crust.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each scallop space in the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than searing.

• Pat them dry: Before seasoning, pat the scallops with paper towels. This ensures they get that nice crust when cooked.

• Watch the cooking time: Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and opaque in the center—overcooked scallops become rubbery.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops

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

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that complements the scallops beautifully.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized adds color and flavor to your plate.

3. Lemon Herb Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and fresh herbs enhances the freshness of the dish while balancing flavors perfectly.

4. Sautéed Spinach
   Quick sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious option that pairs well with the richness of seared scallops.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing salad made from quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds texture and nutrition to your meal.

6. Couscous Pilaf
   Light couscous mixed with herbs and peas makes for a fluffy side that soaks up any delicious sauces from the scallops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Seared Scallops, it’s easy to make common errors that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Under-seasoning your scallops can result in bland flavor. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.

• Bold temperature control: Cooking scallops on low heat will lead to steaming instead of searing. Ensure your skillet or grill is preheated to medium-high for a good sear.

• Bold cooking time: Overcooking scallops can make them tough and rubbery. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they are just cooked through.

• Bold sauce preparation: Adding heavy cream too quickly can cause it to separate. Whisk in the cream gradually and cook over medium heat for the best results.

• Bold dish assembly: Forgetting to layer ingredients properly can lead to a less appealing presentation. Assemble bowls by distributing quinoa, asparagus, and scallops evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Seared Scallops in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Scallops

• Freezing is not recommended for cooked scallops due to texture changes.
• If necessary, freeze them within 24 hours of cooking in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Seared Scallops

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat scallops for about 10 minutes on a baking sheet.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté briefly in a skillet over low heat with a little olive oil until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Seared Scallops:

What types of scallops are best for searing?

Fresh sea scallops are ideal due to their sweet flavor and tender texture. Look for dry-packed varieties that haven’t been treated with preservatives.

How do I know when my scallops are done?

Seared scallops should be opaque in color and firm but tender when gently pressed. They typically take around 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I customize the sauce for my seared scallops?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill or basil, or even spice it up with red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with seared scallops?

Serve them with sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a grain such as quinoa or rice for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize the recipe by adding different vegetables or using various sauces. Give it a try; you might find your new favorite dish!