Name: Scallops with Pasta: A Quick Gourmet Dinner at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine) (choose your preferred type); 1 pound large scallops (fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing); 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted preferred); 1 medium shallot (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (if possible, use fresh); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped for garnish); to taste kosher salt; to taste black pepper

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic and butter began to weave through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite seaside restaurant. This is where my love for cooking Quick Scallops with Pasta ignited, combining simplicity and elegance in one delightful dish. In just 25 minutes, you can transform ordinary ingredients into a dish that feels upscale yet remains family-friendly—a fantastic way to impress guests or treat yourself to a cozy dinner at home. The tender, perfectly seared scallops resting atop silky pasta doused in a rich, garlicky sauce make every bite a celebration of flavors. And the best part? It’s quick to whip up even on the busiest of weeknights! Are you ready to bring a taste of fine dining to your own table?

Why Choose Scallops with Pasta?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for hectic evenings when you crave something special without the fuss.

Gourmet Flavors: Enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home with a buttery garlic sauce that elevates the dish and pampers your palate.

Versatile Ingredients: Use spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine as your pasta base, and feel free to swap scallops for shrimp or chicken for your preferred protein.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this elegant dish that looks stunning on the plate while being simple to prepare!

Healthy Option: Each serving is well-balanced at approximately 376 calories, combining protein with carbohydrates for a nutritious meal.

Elevate your meal with a side of fresh butter lettuce salad or some garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Don’t forget to explore other delightful pasta recipes like Buffalo Chicken Pasta or Spinach Shrimp Pasta for more inspiration!

Scallops with Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta

Pasta – Choose spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for the best texture, creating a delightful base for your dish.

For the Scallops

Large Scallops – Opt for large scallops for the best sear and rich flavor; frozen can work in a pinch!
Olive Oil – This helps to sear the scallops perfectly without sticking and enhances their flavor.

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds a rich and luscious quality to the sauce, making the dish undeniably delicious.
Shallot – Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the sauce; an onion will work as a substitute if needed.
Garlic – A key aromatic that elevates the flavor of the sauce and pairs beautifully with scallops.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish; using fresh juice will enhance the overall flavor.
Fresh Parsley – Garnish with this herb for a fresh touch that complements the richness of the dish.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of all components in this scallops with pasta recipe.

Enjoy crafting this Quick Scallops with Pasta, where every ingredient plays an important role in creating a delightful dining experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallops with Pasta

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water—this will be crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prep Scallops
While the pasta cooks, take 1 pound of large scallops and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is key for achieving a beautiful sear. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Setting them aside will allow the seasoning to permeate while you prepare your skillet.

Step 3: Sear Scallops
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Carefully add the seasoned scallops in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 115°F. Gently remove them from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 4: Make Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in a diced shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.

Step 5: Combine
With the sauce bubbling gently, add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing it with the buttery shallot and garlic mixture. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add more reserved pasta water, ensuring everything is well coated. Gently nestle the seared scallops into the pasta, allowing their flavors to meld together for 1-2 minutes over low heat.

Step 6: Serve
Finish your sumptuous scallops with pasta by drizzling fresh lemon juice over the dish for a bright flavor boost. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately on warm plates so your guests can enjoy the vibrant presentation and delightful aromas right away.

Variations & Substitutions for Scallops with Pasta

Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free options like rice or quinoa pasta for a delicious twist.
Shrimp Delight: Swap scallops for large shrimp for a flavorful, seafood alternative that still sears beautifully.
Chicken Swap: Use pan-seared chicken breast instead of scallops for a heartier dish that’s equally satisfying.
Creamy Twist: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, velvety texture that elevates the dish.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or thyme instead of parsley to add different aromatic notes.

Embrace the concept of personalizing this dish to fit your family’s preferences! It’s not just about scallops; think about the luscious flavors of Chicken Broccoli Pasta or even a zesty Butter Shrimp Pasta that could steal the spotlight at your dinner table.

Spice Level: For an extra kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic!
Veggie Addition: Toss in some sautéed spinach or asparagus to increase nutrition and add a pop of color to your plate.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Scallops with Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and make the buttery garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them separately in airtight containers. To maintain the pasta’s texture, drizzle a little olive oil over the noodles to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet while preparing the scallops—just sear them fresh for that irresistible golden crust. Toss the warm pasta with the reheated sauce and nestle in your beautifully cooked scallops for a dish that’s just as delightful and fresh as when you first made it!

How to Store and Freeze Scallops with Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the pasta and sauce separate to maintain the quality of both.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the scallops with pasta, it’s best to freeze them before combining. Individually freeze the seared scallops in a freezer bag for up to 3 months, and the sauce can be frozen for the same duration in another container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your scallops with pasta, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce’s consistency.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving scallops with pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

What to Serve with Quick Scallops with Pasta?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful seafood dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its luxurious flavors.

Garlic Bread: The warm and crispy texture of garlic bread perfectly contrasts the buttery pasta, making each bite divine.
Butter Lettuce Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the scallops with pasta, adding a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus offers a lovely earthy note, enhancing the overall seafood flavor while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Lemon Wedges: Simply serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to brighten each bite, amplifying the dish’s fresh flavors.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay elevates the meal beautifully, its crisp notes enhancing the sea-inspired flavors of the scallops.
Tiramisu: Conclude your meal with this creamy dessert. The rich coffee flavors harmonize perfectly after the garlic-infused main course, bringing a sweet ending to your gourmet experience.

Expert Tips for Scallops with Pasta

Dry Scallops Well: Ensuring scallops are very dry is essential for achieving a superb sear. Moisture can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Sear in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan to prevent steaming. If necessary, sear scallops in batches to maintain high heat and get that golden crust.
Pasta Water Magic: Reserve enough pasta water, as it’s your secret weapon for creating a perfectly silky sauce. Add it gradually to reach your desired consistency.
Watch the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat when searing scallops. Too low, and they won’t brown; too high, and they will cook too quickly and become tough.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor and fresh parsley for an aromatic finish that enhances your scallops with pasta dish beautifully.

Scallops with Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for scallops?
I recommend using spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for the best texture in your scallops with pasta dish. These types of pasta hold onto the sauce beautifully, creating a seamless balance with the tender scallops.

How should I store leftovers of scallops with pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I suggest keeping the pasta and sauce separate from the scallops to maintain the quality and flavors of each component. This way, when you reheat, everything tastes fresh!

Can I freeze scallops with pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze scallops with pasta, you should freeze the scallops and sauce separately. First, let the scallops cool completely, then lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the sauce in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw everything overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

What if my scallops don’t sear properly?
If your scallops don’t sear well, it’s likely due to moisture or crowding in the pan. Make sure to pat them completely dry before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the skillet. If necessary, sear in batches, allowing each scallop to have enough contact with the pan’s hot surface; this way, they will develop that beautiful golden crust you’re after!

Are scallops safe for people with shellfish allergies?
Scallops are a type of shellfish, so if you or someone you’re cooking for has a shellfish allergy, it’s crucial to avoid them completely. If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp or chicken can be fantastic substitutes, allowing you to enjoy a similar texture in your scallops with pasta dish without the allergy concerns.

How can I make scallops with pasta more flavorful?
To elevate the flavors, consider incorporating fresh herbs or adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful kick, and using fresh lemon juice right before serving will brighten the dish further. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and have fun with it!