Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of perfectly seared scallops and the earthy crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts. This recipe is not only suitable for special occasions but also makes for an impressive weeknight dinner. With its fresh ingredients and zesty lemon butter sauce, this meal stands out for its simplicity and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This dish can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The combination of tender scallops and crispy Brussels sprouts creates a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a main course or as part of a larger meal; it pairs beautifully with grains or salads.
• Fresh Ingredients: Each ingredient shines, especially with the addition of zesty lemon butter sauce enhancing the overall flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is a great choice for health-conscious diners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and effective.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or grill
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or grill: Essential for achieving that perfect sear on your scallops, locking in flavor and moisture.
• Baking sheet: A must-have for roasting Brussels sprouts evenly, ensuring they become tender-crisp.
• Saucepan: Used for preparing the luscious lemon butter sauce that ties all the flavors 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 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: Preheat the Grill or Skillet

Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet or grill.
3. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

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

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter until bubbly.
2. Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook while stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Arrange roasted Brussels sprouts on a platter:
– Top with seared scallops.
– Drizzle generously with lemon butter sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delightful 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 delicious dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes for a complete meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and radicchio drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a creamy dressing, croutons, and topped with grated cheese (omit if avoiding dairy).

Include a Grain

• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with lemon zest complements the scallops nicely.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice mixed with herbs can add depth to the dish.

Garnish for Presentation

• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges adds brightness and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives will provide freshness and color.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Perfecting your Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts is about technique and timing. Here are some essential tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Scallops: Fresh scallops have better flavor and texture than frozen ones. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the fridge before cooking.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your skillet or grill is hot enough before adding the scallops. This helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear scallops in batches if necessary. Crowding can lower the temperature of the pan, making it harder to get a good sear.
• Check for Doneness: Scallops should be opaque in the center when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking them to keep them tender.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your ingredients. Proper seasoning enhances flavors significantly.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different sauces or spices to suit your taste preferences; variations can make this dish even more exciting.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Pairing side dishes with Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement the dish well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic add richness to your plate.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the scallops.
3. Couscous Salad: A Mediterranean-style couscous salad with tomatoes and cucumbers offers refreshing flavors.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes caramelized in the oven bring a sweet note that balances savory elements.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles sautéed with olive oil make a healthy base for your scallops.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs pairs well and absorbs delicious juices from your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your scallops or Brussels sprouts adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously to bring out the natural taste of the ingredients.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many scallops at once can lower the pan’s temperature, causing them to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches for that perfect crust.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted Brussels sprouts can affect the dish’s overall quality. Choose fresh, vibrant vegetables for the best results.
• Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking scallops results in a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on cooking times and aim for a golden brown color on both sides.
• Neglecting to preheat: Failing to preheat your skillet or grill can prevent proper searing. Always ensure your cooking surface is hot before adding scallops.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and warm gently, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to touch when fully cooked. They typically take about 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels for better searing.

What can I serve with Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts?

These scallops pair well with grains like quinoa or rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

How do I prevent my scallops from sticking?

Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the scallops and use enough oil for a good sear.

Final Thoughts

Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts make an elegant yet easy dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe offers room for customization; feel free to add spices or different vegetables according to your taste preferences. Try it today and enjoy a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!