Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Bay Scallops and Shrimp Scampi recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner. It's bursting with fresh flavors and ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a romantic weekend dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for those exploring homemade cooking and seeking best recipes without spending too much time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bay scallops, patted dry
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Linguine or spaghetti, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your ingredients: Pat the bay scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Peel and devein the shrimp. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining; you might need it to thin the sauce.
Sauté the Seafood:
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Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the bay scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they are opaque and lightly browned. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for best results.
Make the Sauce:
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Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
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Stir in the cooked shrimp, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and scallop scampi. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Delicious Results:
- Dry Scallops are Key: Make sure your scallops are completely dry before cooking. This helps them sear properly and prevents them from steaming.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked scallops and shrimp become rubbery. Cook them just until they are opaque and tender.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Using fresh parsley elevates the flavor of this dish significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Add more lemon juice for extra brightness, salt for savoriness, or red pepper flakes for heat.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for a more complete meal.
- Creamy Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Garlic Lovers Delight: Add more garlic! Start with 6 cloves and increase to your liking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on pasta and variations)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Bay Scallops and Shrimp Scampi recipe is a perfect example of how healthy meals can also be quick and delicious. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your amazing homemade cooking experience!