Description
Seared Scallops Over Garlic Pasta is a quick, elegant seafood pasta recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender, golden-brown scallops are paired with garlic-infused pasta tossed in a light butter and white wine sauce, making it a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 large scallops
8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine (dry, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve a little pasta water before draining.
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While pasta cooks, pat scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add white wine and reduce by half (about 2–3 minutes).
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Stir in butter until melted.
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Toss in cooked pasta, coating it in the garlic butter sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
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Plate pasta, top with seared scallops, and garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Notes
For added freshness, stir in lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Substitute with linguine or fettuccine for variety.
For a dairy-free version, skip the butter and Parmesan.
Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Scallops are best enjoyed fresh to preserve texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: ~425 kcal
