Seared Scallops

Seared Scallops are a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of seafood and the freshness of vegetables. This recipe for Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tender scallops pair beautifully with the nutty quinoa and crisp asparagus, all drizzled with a luscious lemon butter sauce. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Combination: The seared scallops combined with lemon butter cream sauce create a deliciously rich taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients from quinoa and asparagus, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite sides like salads or roasted vegetables.
• Impressive Presentation: A colorful bowl filled with seared scallops looks stunning on any table, ideal for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Seared Scallops recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Grill
• Measuring spoons
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Serving bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Grill: A high-quality skillet or grill ensures even cooking for perfectly seared scallops.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help in achieving the right balance of flavors in your dish.
• Saucepan: Essential for creating the smooth lemon butter cream sauce that ties the meal together.

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 pepper.
3. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until 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 and stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked quinoa and steamed asparagus among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with seared scallops.
3. Drizzle generously with the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to spice up your sauce if desired. This meal pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or additional vegetables on the side.

How to Serve Seared Scallops

Serving seared scallops can elevate your dining experience, making it both elegant and satisfying. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement the flavors of your dish.

With Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast.
• Spinach and Avocado: Combine fresh spinach with creamy avocado for a rich texture.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa Pilaf: Serve the scallops on seasoned quinoa mixed with herbs and spices.
• Citrus Quinoa: Add orange or lemon zest to the quinoa for a refreshing kick.

Accompanied by Sauces

• Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: Drizzle this sauce generously over the scallops for added richness.
• Garlic Aioli: Pair with a homemade garlic aioli to enhance the seafood flavor.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Oven-Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a nice balance to the savory scallops.
• Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds depth and texture to your plate.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops

Achieving perfectly seared scallops requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Season your scallops generously with salt and pepper just before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Avoid crowding: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of searing.
• Use high heat: Ensure your skillet or grill is preheated to medium-high heat for that golden crust.
• Don’t flip too soon: Allow scallops to develop a crust before flipping, usually after 2-3 minutes on each side.
• Pat dry beforehand: Use paper towels to dry scallops, ensuring they sear rather than steam.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops

Pairing side dishes with seared scallops can enhance their delicate flavor. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with seafood.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a fresh crunch that complements the dish well.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs provides a subtle backdrop for the rich flavors of scallops.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach retains its nutrients and adds vibrant color to your plate.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with vegetables brings an additional layer of texture and flavor.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and pairs well visually and tastefully with scallops.
7. Carrot Purée: A smooth carrot purée offers sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory scallops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the scallops properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season scallops with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance their natural taste.

• Bold temperature issues: Cooking at too low a temperature can result in overcooked or rubbery scallops. Ensure your grill or skillet is preheated to medium-high heat for that perfect sear.

• Bold timing errors: Overcooking scallops is a frequent mistake. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque.

• Bold sauce shortcuts: Skipping the sauce can make the dish less exciting. Don’t rush this step; take your time to create a smooth and flavorful Lemon Butter Cream Sauce that complements the scallops well.

• Bold storage mistakes: Improper storage can ruin leftovers. Store any remaining scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator if not consumed right away.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Seared Scallops in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Seared Scallops

• For longer storage, freeze cooked scallops in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Seared Scallops

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place scallops on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook them.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil. Sauté for about 2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Seared Scallops that may help you while making this delicious dish:

What type of scallops should I use for Seared Scallops?

You can use sea scallops or bay scallops, but sea scallops are larger and provide a better texture when seared.

How do I know when my Seared Scallops are done?

They should be golden brown on the outside and opaque throughout, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

Can I substitute the butter in the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I prevent my Seared Scallops from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your skillet is well-heated and lightly greased with olive oil before adding the scallops. This helps create a non-stick surface for cooking.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Seared Scallops, Asparagus, and Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce offers an elegant yet simple dish that is perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding other vegetables or grains based on your preference. Try it today and enjoy a delightful meal bursting with flavor!