Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Linguine

Indulge in the succulent flavors of the sea with a dish that will leave you craving for more. Imagine a perfectly cooked scallop, seared to a golden crisp and served with a rich garlic butter linguine that will tantalize your taste buds.

Recipe Details

You can prepare this recipe in no time, making it perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes

Recipe Overview

Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ingredients

To make this mouth-watering dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 large scallops
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your masterpiece:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the white wine to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until reduced by half.
4. Stir in the softened butter until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
6. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Add the cooked linguine to the garlic butter skillet, tossing to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy sauce.
8. To serve, place the scallops on top of the linguine and drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Chef’s Notes or Substitutions

For an added layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the linguine before serving. If scallops are not available, you can substitute them with shrimp or lobster, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Tips for Success

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, keep the following tips in mind:
* Use high-quality ingredients, especially the scallops, for the best flavor and texture.
* Don’t overcook the scallops; they should be tender and juicy.
* Reserve enough pasta water to achieve a creamy sauce that coats the linguine well.

Storage & Reheating

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the linguine in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. However, for the best results, consume the scallops immediately after cooking, as reheating can affect their texture.

Nutrition Table

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Linguine:
* Q: How do I prevent the scallops from sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure the scallops are completely dry before seasoning and the pan is hot before adding the oil.
* Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
A: Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry to remove excess moisture for better searing.
* Q: What type of wine is best for the garlic butter sauce?
A: A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works well, but you can also use chicken or vegetable broth as a substitute.

Conclusion

With its combination of succulent scallops, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine, this Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Linguine recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Take a culinary journey to the coast with every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists to make this dish truly yours. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!