Sauteed Scallops with Pasta
A fast and elegant seafood pasta dish made with tender sea scallops, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. Ready in 15 minutes for a delicious weeknight dinner or romantic meal.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
1 lb fresh large sea scallops
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp butter
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
8 oz pasta
1 dash red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta: Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Prep scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
Sear scallops: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds (do not brown).
Add scallops to the hot skillet and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
Add butter, lemon juice, white wine (if using), and reserved pasta water. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Add in drained pasta. Toss to combine.
Add red pepper flakes if desired. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley (optional).
Notes
Drying scallops ensures a golden sear.
Don’t brown the garlic—it can turn bitter.
White wine adds flavor depth, but it’s optional.
Great with a side of crusty bread or simple salad.
Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/sauteed-scallops-with-pasta/
