Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of perfectly seared scallops with tender, roasted Brussels sprouts. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The bright lemon butter sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that is both elegant and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can prepare this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe offers a healthy option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure excellent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking Sheet
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even heat distribution, perfect for achieving a golden sear on the scallops.
• Baking Sheet: Using a baking sheet ensures that the Brussels sprouts roast evenly without overcrowding.
• Saucepan: A saucepan is necessary for making the smooth lemon butter sauce that enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate ingredients smoothly when preparing sauces.

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 Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

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

How to Make Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet.
4. Once hot, carefully place the scallops in the skillet.
5. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender-crisp.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Whisk in lemon juice and minced garlic.
3. Add salt and black pepper; continue to cook while stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

1. Arrange roasted Brussels sprouts on a platter.
2. Top with seared scallops.
3. Drizzle generously with lemon butter sauce before serving.

Feel free to customize this dish further by adding your favorite spices or side dishes! Enjoy your culinary creation of Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

How to Serve Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts can elevate your dining experience. This combination is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to present this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette can complement the richness of the scallops.

Serve with Grain

• Serving over quinoa or rice adds a nutritious base that absorbs the delightful lemon butter sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh parsley or chives as a garnish enhances both presentation and flavor.

Accompany with Lemon Wedges

• Providing lemon wedges allows guests to add extra brightness to their dish.

Place on a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate the scallops and Brussels sprouts onto a charcuterie board for an elegant appetizer option.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Achieving the perfect sear on scallops alongside tender Brussels sprouts requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips.

• Choose Quality Scallops – Fresh, dry-packed scallops yield the best texture and flavor.

• Preheat Your Pan – Ensure your skillet or grill is hot before adding scallops for a beautiful brown crust.

• Don’t Overcrowd – Cook scallops in batches if necessary; overcrowding lowers the temperature and results in steaming instead of searing.

• Monitor Cooking Time – Cook scallops for only 2-3 minutes per side to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

• Season Generously – Proper seasoning enhances natural flavors, so don’t be shy with salt and pepper.

• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing scallops to rest briefly after cooking ensures juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair beautifully with Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and rich texture.

2. Couscous Salad – Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs provides freshness.

3. Lemon Herb Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with lemon zest and fresh herbs brightens up the plate.

4. Steamed Asparagus – Crisp, lightly steamed asparagus adds color and crunch without overshadowing the main dish.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer a delightful contrast of sweetness.

6. Quinoa Pilaf – A savory quinoa pilaf can introduce nutty flavors while being a nutritious option.

7. Cauliflower Gratin – Creamy cauliflower gratin adds richness and complements the scallops beautifully.

8. Simple Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a crunchy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls when preparing seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts.

• Overcooking the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly; if overcooked, they become tough and rubbery. To avoid this, keep an eye on them while searing and only cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque.
• Unevenly Roasted Brussels Sprouts: If Brussels sprouts are crowded on the baking sheet, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Neglecting to Season Properly: Underseasoned dishes can lack flavor. Be generous with seasoning the scallops and Brussels sprouts before cooking to enhance their natural taste.
• Skipping the Lemon Butter Sauce: The sauce adds brightness and richness to the dish. Don’t skip it! Prepare the sauce while your scallops and Brussels sprouts cook to have it ready when you plate the meal.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste. Always choose fresh scallops and Brussels sprouts for the best results in your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, ensuring even heating without overcooking the scallops.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts.

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 can I substitute for butter in the lemon butter sauce?

You can use plant-based margarine or olive oil as alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when my scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked. A slight golden crust is also a good sign!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Store them separately until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Final Thoughts

Seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts make an elegant yet simple dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors is delightful, and you can easily customize it by adding spices or using different vegetables. Try this recipe today!