Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the delicate flavors of the sea with the lightness of pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, often found in the menus of gourmet restaurants as well as being a favorite for home cooks who want to create a special meal.
The star of the dish, sea scallops, are known for their sweet, mild flavor and firm yet tender texture. They are usually seared to perfection, creating a golden-brown crust on the outside while remaining succulent inside. This method of cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops and adds a delightful texture contrast.
Angel hair pasta, known for its thin, fine strands, is the perfect complement to the scallops. It is cooked to be al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite. The lightness of angel hair pasta ensures that it does not overpower the delicate scallops but rather provides a subtle backdrop that enhances their flavor.
The dish is often brought together with a sauce that can range from a light, lemony butter sauce to a slightly richer garlic cream sauce. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, are added to infuse freshness and a hint of color. Additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese might be included to add complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta is not just a dish but an experience – a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is both satisfying and elegant. It’s a perfect choice for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or whenever you want to indulge in a luxurious seafood pasta meal.
Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipe - Gourmet Seafood Delight
Details Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients For Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
1 (16 ounce) package angel hair pasta
¼ cup butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream (Optional)
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese to taste (Optional)
Instructions: Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook, uncovered, for 4 to 5 minutes or until al dente; drain.
Step 2: While pasta is cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook just until fragrant and softened, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Slice any scallops over 3/4-inch thick in half so they'll cook evenly.
Step 4: Stir scallops, basil, and parsley into the skillet. Cook and gently stir just until scallops feel slightly firm when pressed with a finger, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scallops will become tough and chewy if overcooked.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low; stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Pour in cream if you like a thicker sauce and cook just until the sauce begins to simmer.
Step 6: Ladle scallops and sauce over hot pasta and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over top.
Feedback of Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
Made exactly as written but used dried basil rather than fresh. Quick and easy. Will definitely make again.
Delicious. I followed recipe except did not add heavy cream. Came out perfect! Will definitely make again.Thanks for the recipe.
Very nice, but very rich!
An amazing recipe. One that's open to your own modifications as well. I used a bit more lemon, a bit more heavy cream, about 3-4 (maybe 5 LOL!) tablespoons Pinot Grigio white wine & tossed in some fresh shrimp to boot. My g/f dislikes pan fried scallops but prepared this way using this recipe she devoured them! Highly recommend!!
Delicious and so easy! I ended up using more lemon juice, butter, and cream because I wanted more sauce and added extra basil to taste. This recipe is definitely a new favorite!
Wow! This recipe is so delicious 😋 last night I prepared & cooked this luscious recipe without the cream , still tasted on the lighter side, delicious I substituted with 9oz. Package of fresh 1 min boil Angel hair pasta ! I did add more fresh lemon juice , 1 whole lemon and half stick of butter. I’ll be adding the cream in the winter months ahead! Love ❤️
NELL EAKLEhalf a stick of butter and 2 TABLESPOONS made plenty of tasty sauce and it was even better with HEAVY CREAM and grated parm.Maybe double check the recipe and try again. It’s definitely worth it!
Didn't change anything in the recipe and my husband and I loved it. Will most definitely be making this again...I'm thinking tonight...LOL
My family LOVES this recipe! The first time I made it for my husband and I and we considered it pretty good, but as some people said the sauce was kind of thin (Yes, I used cream) and didn't stick to the pasta. It was good enough to try again, so when I saw scallops on sale this week I planned it for Father's Day dinner. I was a bit more generous with my garlic and lemon and used heavy whipping cream. Still didn't look very thick in the pan so I added around half a teaspoon of cornstarch to the sauce. There was plenty of sauce and this time it stuck! YUMMY
All Nutrifacts of Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
TOP 5+ FAQ Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta Recipes
✅What is the best way to cook sea scallops for pasta?
The key to perfectly cooked sea scallops is to sear them in a hot pan with butter or oil. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they have a golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a delicious caramelization.
✅How should you prepare angel hair pasta for this dish?
Cook angel hair pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes. It's important to not overcook it as angel hair pasta is very fine. Drain the pasta and toss it with a bit of oil to prevent sticking before combining it with the scallops.
✅What type of sauce pairs well with sea scallops and pasta?
A light, lemony butter sauce or a white wine garlic sauce pairs excellently with sea scallops and angel hair pasta. These sauces complement the sweetness of the scallops and the lightness of the pasta without overpowering the dish.
✅Can you add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like asparagus, peas, or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish with additional flavors and textures. Sauté the vegetables separately and mix them in with the pasta and scallops for a nutritious and colorful meal.
✅What is the best way to ensure scallops are not overcooked?
To avoid overcooking scallops, make sure the pan is hot before adding them. Sear them for only 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. They should be slightly translucent in the center when done. Overcooked scallops can become tough and rubbery.
