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Savory Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in Zesty Lemon Sauce

Savory Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in Zesty Lemon Sauce
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★★★★★

4.7 from 24 reviews

This Savory Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in Zesty Lemon Sauce is a quick and elegant dish perfect for seafood lovers. Tender sea scallops are seared to perfection and tossed with delicate angel hair pasta in a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce, accented by fresh garlic and herbs. Optional additions of cream and Parmesan add richness and depth, creating a balanced plate full of flavor and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces Angel Hair Pasta (cook until al dente)

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Butter (or substitute with olive oil for a lighter option)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced, fresh)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (avoid bottled juice for optimal freshness)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

For the Star Ingredient

  • 1 pound Sea Scallops (thoroughly dried before cooking)

For Garnish

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (fresh is ideal for a vibrant finish)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (can be replaced with cilantro if desired)
  • 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (optional for a creamy version)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, about 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Scallops: Gently place the dried sea scallops in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping once, until they turn firm and opaque.
  4. Add Lemon and Season: Reduce heat and add fresh lemon juice, along with salt and pepper. Stir well and simmer for a minute to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Add Cream (Optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream to thicken the sauce slightly and add richness.
  6. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet and gently toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
  7. Plate and Garnish: Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh basil, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired for an added savory touch.

Notes

  • Make sure scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.
  • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled to ensure the brightness of the sauce.
  • Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
  • For a lighter version, use olive oil in place of butter and omit the heavy cream.
  • Fresh herbs can be substituted or omitted based on personal preference.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice umami flavor if used.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sea Scallops, Angel Hair Pasta, Lemon Sauce, Seafood Recipe, Easy Dinner, Quick Pasta, Healthy Seafood

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/savory-sea-scallops-with-angel-hair-pasta-in-zesty-lemon-sauce/