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Seared Scallops with Lemon-Spinach Pasta – A Restaurant-Quality Dish at Home


  • Author: Mary

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 7 ounces (200g) spaghetti or linguini
  • 7 ounces (200g) sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • ¾ cup (225ml) dry white wine
  • ½ cup (120ml) chicken, vegetable, or seafood stock
  • ½ ounce (15g) parsley, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon, reserving the lemon for serving
  • 6 ounces (175g) fresh spinach
  • 1¾ ounces (50g) Parmesan, grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Scallops:

    • Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
  • Sear the Scallops:

    • Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the scallops.
    • Sear each scallop for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
    • Remove the scallops from the pan, place on a plate, and cover with foil to keep warm.
  • Prepare the Sauce:

    • Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same pan.
    • Add the chopped shallot and cook until tender and slightly golden.
    • Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes and pour in the white wine.
    • Let the wine reduce for about 1-2 minutes, then add the stock.
    • Add the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
  • Combine Pasta and Sauce:

    • Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat.
    • Pour the sauce over the pasta.
    • Add the fresh spinach and stir until it starts to wilt. Covering the pot for 1-2 minutes can help wilt the spinach faster.
  • Finish the Dish:

    • Remove the pot from heat.
    • Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully incorporated.
    • Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

 

  • Serve:

    • Plate the pasta and top with the seared scallops.
    • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.