Scallop Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

By Suzanne Anderson May 19, 2023 34 mins read 94 Views

You may think that scallop pasta is only available in restaurants, but it's actually very easy to make. This date night recipe is ready in 20 minutes.

Photo credits: Mariam Hamdy

The perception of scallop pasta is unfair. Scallop pasta is a dish that gets a bad rap. This is pushed into a special occasion box, and then locked away for a big night out.

Scallop pasta can be prepared in a matter of minutes for a quick weeknight meal. Scallops are also suitable for the Mediterranean Diet and can be cooked in less than five minutes. If you can't get fresh scallops, then frozen scallops will be easy to come by and are more economical. The delicately sweet and briny flavor of frozen scallops is what makes them so popular.

This recipe uses fresh or frozen sea scallops that are pan-seared until golden brown. The drippings will caramelize and turn into jewels of concentrated flavors. We make the most of this opportunity by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and a little milk into a whipped mixture. The dish is creamy, decadent and not too rich. Garlic is always a must! The generous amount of garlic adds an irresistible and bold flavor to the delicate scallops.

This scallop pasta recipe is one I have in my back pocket to use on a Friday when I am short of time, but still want to embrace the weekend. This is a great way to change up your weeknight routine. Serve with crusty bread bought at the store. You can also bake your own Rosemary Focaccia, or Ciabatta garlic bread. Start the evening off with an Aperol Spritz, and you've got a date.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Scallop Pasta
How to cook Scallop Pasta
How to Remove Muscle From a Scallop
How to Buy Scallops: Frozen or Fresh?
Scallop Pasta: What to serve with it
Scallops Made Easy: More Recipes
Scallop Pasta Recipe

Ingredients of Scallop Pasta

The ingredients for scallop pasta are easily available at the supermarket.

Spaghetti :Spaghetti is a long, thin pasta that pairs well with scallops' delicate texture and taste. Bucatini and angel hair are both worthy substitutes.
Sea Scallops:Aim for large, firm sea scallops. (Not bay scallops which are smaller). Fresh or frozen scallops work equally well. If you are using frozen scallops in a bag, set them in a bowl with cold water and let them thaw for 15 minutes.
Seasoning Pepper and salt enhance flavor. To season, sprinkle a little salt and pepper throughout the cooking process. Always adjust according to your taste.
Extra virgin olive oil:Extra Virgin Olive Oil is an important flavor component in the sauce. Use an olive oil with a buttery texture that is not bitter. We recommend our Italian Nocellara.
Shallots:Sweet and mild shallots add a subtle onion flavor to the sauce, without overwhelming the delicate scallops. You can substitute 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onions if you must.
Garlic : This pasta is a powerful flavorful dish that smells amazing.
Aleppo Pepper:Aleppo is a dried chili pepper that's commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine and Mediterranean cuisine. It gives a mild and slightly fruity kick. You can find Aleppo Pepper in the spice aisle of your local grocery store. Or, you can order our favorite online or use red pepper flakes.
Lemon:Lemon goes well with seafood. The zest and juice are used to balance out the creamy sauce. Choose a lemon without chemicals. Give it a scrub before zesting.
Whole milk:This pasta is creamy, luxurious and not too heavy.
Parmesan:An Italian aged cheese with a salty, nutty flavor. Choose the large chunks of cheese over pre-shredded ones. It's worth it to wash your cheese grater for the difference in flavor and texture.
ParsleyHerbs add a freshness to savory and creamy dishes. They are always on my menu. This dish will require a large amount of parsley, so you don't need to pick every single leaf. The tender stems are full of flavor.

How To Cook Scallop Pasta

Scallop pasta is easy to make. Before you begin, prepare your ingredients, measure them and have them ready. You will enjoy your pasta more and have time to relax!

Prepare: Bring medium pots of water to a rolling simmer and season generously with kosher sea salt. Chop finely one shallot, and mince four cloves of garlic. One lemon should be zested, then sliced in half to collect the juice. Grate enough parmesan cheese to make 1/2 cup. Chop fresh parsley stems and leaves to make 1/2 cup. Then, remove the scallops' muscles (see tips below) and pat them dry. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the pasta: Add pasta to boiling water, and cook until al dente as per the instructions on the package. Just before draining, reserve about 1 cup of cooking water.
Sear scallops.Halfway during cooking pasta, heat two tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the scallops to the pan once the oil starts to shimmer. (Work in batches if you have a small pan). Cook and flip until golden brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate with a rim and tent loosely using foil to keep warm.
Add 1/3 of the olive oil to the pan while it is still on medium high. Add the garlic, shallots and 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo to the shimmering oil. A pinch of salt is also added. Turn down the heat and stir frequently until fragrant. This should take 1 to 2 mins. Add the lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of the pasta water that you have saved. Add the milk and grated parmesan. Stir for about 1 minute until all ingredients are combined.
Add pasta:Add drained pasta with lemon zest and parsley. Toss the pasta to coat. The pasta should be glossy. If the pasta is dry, add some more water to the cooking water. Stir well.
Add scallops to the dish: Include the scallops with any juices that have accumulated. Gently toss the scallops into the sauce. To adjust the seasoning to your taste, add a bit more Aleppo and lemon juice, or a little extra parmesan. Serve immediately.

How To Remove The Muscle From A Scallop

The scallops become even more tender and delicate after removing the muscle. With a bit of practice, it is an easy process to perform.

The scallops can be rinsed under cold water, and dried with paper towels.
On the scallop, look for a small, rectangular, tough muscle. The muscle will be darker and more durable than the rest.
Insert the tip of your knife under the muscle.
Cut the muscle from the scallop using a gentle sawing movement. Be careful not to cut into the meat too deeply (you do not want to waste the good stuff! ).
Remove the muscle from the scallop.
Repeat this process with the remaining scallops.

Scallops: Frozen or Fresh?

Fresh seafood is best if you can get it from a reliable source. Check for a creamy white color and a firm texture. They should also have a pinkish or orange tint. Don't worry if I don't describe your shopping situation! Many people don't like the idea of buying frozen scallops. However, they are actually delicious.

Wherever you live, frozen Scallops can be cheaper and more readily available. Here's an interesting fact: the frozen scallops at your local store may be more fresh than the "fresh" ones in the fish aisle. This is because they are frozen at their best, as opposed to the "fresh" scallops that have been sitting at the seafood counters for days. The seafood counter scallops are often frozen.

If you can, choose wild-caught fish. These fish are usually more flavorful.

What to serve with Scallop Pasta

This scallop pasta is hearty and delicious. It can stand alone. You can still go all out on one or two sides if you choose recipes that are easy to prepare in advance. The best time to serve scallops is immediately after they have been cooked. It's best to leave the final touches until just before serving.

I like a nice crusty loaf and something green. For a date night in, little says "I love you" quite like freshly baked Focaccia.

Try Roasted Fennel with Parmigiano cheese as a vegetable. The scallops and the mildly sweet, cheesy flavor from the fennel are a perfect match. Jeff, a lovely reader of ours, said it best: "Yet again a yummy dish that has converted my wife to a veggie that she previously claimed she doesn't like!" It's a flavor explosion when you eat these! The balsamic takes it to Yumtown! !

For the perfect timing, place the fennel into the oven 10 minutes before starting to cook the pasta. Add the Parmesan just before searing the scallops. You only need to drizzle balsamic at the end and serve.

More Easy Scallop Recipes

Grilled Scallops With Mediterranean Tomato Salsa
Easy Mediterranean Scallops Recipe
Mediterranean Shrimp Soup
Cioppino Recipe (Seafood Stew)

Search all Mediterranean Recipes

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Scallop Pasta

This easy recipe makes restaurant-quality scallop pasta in 20 minutes. This recipe is special enough to serve on a date, yet simple enough to make for a weeknight meal.

Course Meal, Entree

Prep Time 10 Minutes

Cook Time 10 Minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings

Calories 541,5 Kcal

Suzy Kardsheh Author

Ingredients

Kosher Salt
8 ounces spaghetti
1 pound sea scallops (about 12 to 16 scallops), muscle removed
Ground black pepper
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
4 large garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon Aleppo or red pepper flakes
1 large Lemon, juiced and zested
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 cup chopped parsley leaves

Instructions

Boiling the pasta: Bring water to a boil in a medium-sized pot and season it with a large pinch of kosher sea salt. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Just before draining, reserve 1 cup of cooking water.
Remove the scallops from the refrigerator while the pasta is boiling. They should be wiped dry, then seasoned with black pepper and salt. As your pasta begins to boil, heat up a large skillet on medium high. Once the oil starts to shimmer, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. If necessary, sear in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook and flip until golden brown, approximately 2 minutes on each side. Transfer to a plate with a rim and tent loosely using foil to keep warm.
Add 1/3 cup olive oil to the skillet while it is still on medium high. Add the garlic, Aleppo, shallot and salt when the oil begins to shimmer. Turn down the heat and stir frequently for 1 to 2 minute until fragrant. Add the lemon juice, 1/4 cup pasta water and stir. Stir in the parmesan, milk and other ingredients for about a minute.
Add the pasta and lemon zest to the sauce. Toss the pasta to coat. The pasta should be glossy. If the pasta is dry, you can add some more water to it and stir it.
Add the Scallops: Add any juices that have accumulated and gently mix to combine. Add more Aleppo and lemon juice if you like. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

It's best to serve scallops immediately. Prepare any salads or sides you plan to serve in advance.
If you are using a smaller pan to brown the scallops, do so in batches. This will give them a nice seared. After adding the parmesan, scrape the mixture into the pot you used to boil the pasta. Then add the pasta. You will have more room to stir if you use a large pot rather than a small one.
Overcooking can cause scallops to become rubbery and dry. Sear your scallops for just 2 minutes on each side. Make sure that the pan is very hot. The pan should be golden brown, and the pancakes should release easily. If they are sticking, wait a few seconds longer and then try again.
Scallops are not recommended to be heated as they become rubbery. Enjoy any leftovers at room temperature or cold.
Browse our shop for quality Mediterranean ingredients such as olive oil, honey, jams, and spices.

Nutrition

Carbohydrates: 54.6g

Scallop Pasta (Ready to Eat in 20 Minutes!) The post Scallop Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

By: Suzy Karadsheh
Title: Scallop Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)
Sourced From: www.themediterraneandish.com/scallop-pasta/
Published Date: Fri, 19 May 2023 14:23:29 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic principles of the Mediterranean diet?

Mediterranean living is a lifestyle that emphasizes healthy, nutritious food choices and regular exercise. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts, and a moderate intake of dairy products, fish, meat, and poultry. Red wine should be enjoyed in moderation. The basic principles of the Mediterranean diet are:

Eat primarily plant-based foods, including fruits and vegetables; whole-grain bread and cereals; beans (legumes), nuts, and seeds; healthy fats from olive oil and olives; small amounts of low-fat cheese; yogurt (preferably nonfat); fish (at least twice a week), small amounts of lean poultry or red meat about once per week; minimal fried foods.
It is better to choose fresh ingredients than pre-packaged, processed foods whenever possible.
To enhance the flavor of your meals, add herbs to replace salt.
You can incorporate physical activity into your day, such as going for a walk after dinner and taking part in a class.
Enjoy sharing meals with loved ones and enjoy the shared experience of cooking together.
You can practice mindful eating by paying more attention to the textures, flavors, and smells in your food. This will help you recognize when you are full and satisfied.

What can I eat on a Mediterranean diet in one day?

The Mediterranean diet is rich in healthy fats, protein, and lots of fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains. A healthy Mediterranean diet should include about seven to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily and two to four 3-ounce servings of lean protein such as fish or chicken. Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts are also encouraged in moderate amounts. To ensure a balanced diet, aim for three portions of whole grains each day, such as quinoa or barley.

Consuming unhealthy foods regularly can make it difficult to avoid them. Consuming dairy should be limited. Those who do choose to include dairy should consume low-fat versions whenever possible. Avoid eating fish more than three times per week due to potential mercury contamination. This can affect its nutritional value and cause it to be less nutritious if it is not planned for.

Planning meals can ensure that you are getting the best from your Mediterranean diet. It is important to consider the nutritional benefits and how they will affect your heart health.

The Mediterranean diet offers a variety of delicious and nutritious food options that can make it enjoyable. Choose high-quality proteins such as wild-caught fish, grass-fed meat, and organic eggs to ensure the healthiest meals. Additionally, incorporate heart-healthy fats from nuts, olives, avocados, extra virgin olive oil, and coconut oil. Make sure to include plenty of fresh and/or frozen fruits and vegetables in your meals and whole grains such as quinoa, barley, and oats. Finally, limit unhealthy fats, added sugar, processed foods, starches, red meat, and processed meats.

Can regular olive oils be used instead of extra-virgin olive oil?

Extra virgin olive olive oil can be substituted for regular olive olive oil in the Mediterranean diet. Regular olive oil can still be used, even though Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), is more desirable for its superior quality and nutritional benefits. However, it is still possible to use regular olive oil due to its mild flavor. Regular olive oil is great for everyday cooking, from stir-frying to roasting vegetables. It is more affordable than EVOO and may be more suited for high heat applications like deep frying. But, it doesn't have the same nutrients or positive compound as EVOO. You should make up these benefits by eating other foods whenever you can.

What fruit can you eat as part of a Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean Diet includes fruits such as oranges, grapes and melons. Think of adding fresh fruits to breakfast ideas like smoothie bowls or parfaits for added nutrition. Greek yogurt, spread over toast with dates, is another great choice for breakfast. Fresh fruit can be sliced and served over salads to add flavor and nutrients and satisfy sweet tooth cravings. Other healthy snacks from the Mediterranean Diet may include nuts and seeds such as almonds and pistachios and dark chocolate in moderation for added antioxidants. You can taste the ancient Mediterranean diet's flavors by exploring the various options available in the Mediterranean region.

Is the Mediterranean diet expensive to follow?

The Mediterranean diet can be very affordable with readily available ingredients. Many staple foods are found in local grocery stores or farmers' markets. But, it can be more expensive to shop for organic products or high-quality protein, as well as special items such extra virgin olive oils. You should set a budget and plan your meals accordingly. Also, you can save money by using leftovers from other meals and bulk-freezing foods like fish and grain.

Can the Mediterranean Food Diet be gluten free?

Yes, you can adapt the Mediterranean Diet to be gluten-free. Instead of using whole-grain carbohydrate sources like wheat and barley, you can incorporate gluten-free grains, such as millet (or quinoa), into your meals. Additional gluten-free options include fruits like melon, pears and fresh vegetables as well as legumes, nuts, seeds and nuts. For added protein sources such as dairy, choosing lactose-free products is sometimes beneficial for individuals intolerant to milk and gluten. For example, porridge can be substituted for oats and baked salmon with potatoes or bean soup as lunch. You could also roast vegetables with herbs for dinner.

Can I drink alcohol on the Mediterranean diet?

It is possible to drink moderate quantities of alcohol in the Mediterranean diet. Limit your alcohol intake to one glass per day for women and two for men. Drinks suitable for this include dry wines and beer as well as spirits made with natural ingredients like vodka, whiskey, or Gin. High sugar cocktails and heavy spirits should be avoided. Incorporating water or herbal teas into your daily diet can help you stay hydrated and reduce your desire for sugary drinks.

Statistics

Choose fat-free or 1% milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese. (my.clevelandclinic.org)
The Mediterranean Diet group had a 30% lower relative risk of cardiovascular events compared to the low-fat diet group. (my.clevelandclinic.org)
1g sugar Benefits Rich in heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, these nuts may also favourably impact your gut microbiome (and thus improve digestive health) and lower LDL cholesterol, according to a small study that included 18 healthy adults. (everydayhealth.com)
Benefits of Replacing foods high in saturated fats (like butter) with plant sources high in monounsaturated fatty acids, like olive oil, may help lower the risk of heart disease by 19 percent, according to research. (everydayhealth.com)

External Links

How To

How to Plan a Week Of Delicious and Nutritious Mediterranean Meals

Adopting a Mediterranean diet is an effective way to improve overall health and quality of life. This healthy eating plan is rich in nutrients and emphasizes whole grains, legumes fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy fats. Eating this way can have many potential benefits, such as helping maintain better blood lipids, improved glucose control, reduced risk for depression and certain types of cancer, better cardiac health, increased cognitive function, and improved weight management.

Following these tips can make it easy to incorporate Mediterranean-inspired foods into your diet: swapping out high-calorie snacks like chips with nutrient-dense vegetable appetizers or other traditional greens or beans dishes; learning how to increase variety with spices or different sources derived from nuts, fruits, and vegetables; integrating more whole grains, legumes, and high fiber items that can enhance satiety after meals; adding moderate amounts of dairy products like yogurt cheese and milk throughout the day for added nutrition; using olive oil as the primary cooking fat instead of traditional oils; occasionally enjoying a glass of red wine to complete the Mediterranean experience.

You can plan a week full of healthy and delicious meals that follow the Mediterranean diet guidelines. Start by focusing on certain components. ; fruits for desserts snacks smoothies, etc. Seasonings herbs, sauces and optional dairy yogurt cheese Kefir. You can mix up the flavors throughout the week to ensure adequate nutrient intake and flavor balance. This is an important element of a Mediterranean-style lifestyle. The combination of the meal and regular exercise will provide even greater benefits in the short-term and long-term.