This seared scallops recipe features tender, juicy scallops paired with a rich and flavorful pesto cream sauce. It’s a quick and elegant dish that works well for special occasions or a weeknight dinner.
The recipe is simple and highlights the natural sweetness of the scallops while the pesto cream adds a vibrant touch. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.
Visual Appeal of Seared Scallops
The presentation of seared scallops is a feast for the eyes. The golden-brown crust of the scallops contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green pesto cream sauce, creating an inviting dish that is hard to resist.
Served on a pristine white plate, the scallops are artfully arranged, allowing the colors to pop. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a touch of elegance, while fresh basil leaves provide a hint of freshness and color.
This dish not only pleases the palate but also captivates the senses, making it perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight dinner.
Flavor Profile
The flavor combination of seared scallops and pesto cream sauce is remarkable. The scallops offer a naturally sweet and tender bite, enhanced by the rich and creamy pesto sauce.
The addition of lemon juice in the sauce brightens the overall flavor, balancing the richness with a refreshing tang.
This dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated and flavorful experience.
Cooking Techniques
Perfectly searing scallops requires attention to detail. Start by ensuring the scallops are dry, which helps achieve that coveted golden crust.
Cooking them in a hot skillet with olive oil allows for a quick sear, locking in moisture and flavor.
Once cooked, the scallops are combined with the creamy pesto sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors while remaining tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing the scallops with pasta, rice, or seasonal vegetables.
The creamy pesto sauce complements a variety of sides, making it easy to customize the dish according to personal preferences.
Garnishing with fresh basil and Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the dish’s presentation.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately 450 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for dinner.
With 28 grams of protein and 36 grams of fat, it provides a good balance of nutrients, perfect for those looking to enjoy a rich meal without overindulging.
The low carbohydrate content ensures it fits well into various dietary plans, making it a great choice for health-conscious diners.
Conclusion
Seared scallops with pesto cream sauce is a dish that combines elegance with simplicity.
Its stunning presentation and delightful flavors make it a standout choice for any dining occasion.
Whether you are entertaining guests or treating yourself to a special meal, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Easy Seared Scallops with Pesto Cream Sauce
This dish combines perfectly seared scallops with a creamy pesto sauce that enhances the flavors. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
- 12 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Pesto Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Stir in the pesto sauce and lemon juice, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine: Return the seared scallops to the skillet, gently coating them in the pesto cream sauce. Heat for an additional minute to warm the scallops.
- Serve: Plate the scallops with the pesto cream sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
