If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible, look no further than Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta! This delightful recipe brings together the sweetness of fresh scallops and the light texture of angel hair pasta, all dressed in a luxurious sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Did you know that scallops are often considered a delicacy? Their tender, juicy meat complements the delicate pasta perfectly, making this dish both impressive enough for guests and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes of preparation, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to impress everyone at the table.
For those familiar with my blog, you might recall my popular Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. While both recipes celebrate seafood and pasta, the Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta introduces a richness that elevates dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that is sure to become a family favorite!
What is Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta?
So, what exactly is this delightful dish? Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta sounds fancy, but it’s about as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! The dish features beautifully seared sea scallops nestled on a bed of angel hair pasta, drizzled with a garlic-infused sauce that’s brimming with flavor. Ever wonder how something so simple came to sound so sophisticated? Well, perhaps it’s because scallops have long been considered seafood royalty, evoking thoughts of fine dining and special occasions. They say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” right? With this dish on your table, you might just win over everyone around you! So why not give it a try?
Why You’ll Love Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
There’s so much to love about Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta! First and foremost, the star of the show, the sea scallops, are nothing short of delightful. They are naturally sweet and have a buttery texture that makes each bite a pleasure. Secondly, cooking at home can be a real money saver—this recipe allows you to recreate a restaurant-style meal in your kitchen without breaking the bank! Lastly, the flavorful garlic sauce is made with easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a symphony of taste. Compared to something like Chicken Alfredo, which can be heavy and rich, this dish offers a lighter, yet equally satisfying, alternative. Ready to get cooking? You won’t regret trying this recipe!
How to Make Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
Quick Overview
Making Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta is as easy as it is delicious. The entire process will take you about 25-30 minutes—from start to finish! With its creamy garlic sauce, perfectly cooked scallops, and delicate pasta, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Key Ingredients for Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious dish:
- 8 ounces of angel hair pasta
- 1 pound of sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
- Sear the Scallops: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sea scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for a minute. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and combined.
- Combine: Toss the cooked angel hair pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Plate & Serve: Add the seared scallops on top of the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your luxurious meal!
What to Serve Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
This elegant dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of side options. Consider serving a crisp Caesar salad for added crunch or some freshly baked garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side of steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables can also bring additional color and nutrition to your meal. And why not complement dinner with a light, refreshing white wine or sparkling water with a hint of lemon?
Top Tips for Perfecting Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
To make your cooking experience even better, here are some pro tips!
- When searing scallops, ensure they are dry to get that gorgeous golden crust.
- Don’t rush the sauce; allowing the flavors to meld makes a world of difference in taste.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior flavor.
- If you want a touch of spice, red pepper flakes can make for a delightful addition.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet while cooking the scallops to ensure they sear properly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to bring back the sauce’s consistency. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this dish can also be frozen for up to a month—just be sure to separate the scallops and pasta before freezing to preserve the texture upon reheating.
Conclusion
Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta is an elegant yet straightforward recipe that brings a touch of restaurant-style dining to your home. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this dish promises to be a hit with its creamy sauce, tender scallops, and delightful pasta. So roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry Ensure they are dry for better searing.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for searing the scallops.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced For flavoring the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For added richness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- for garnish Fresh parsley To add color and freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.
Searing the Scallops
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sea scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for a minute. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and combined.
Combining Everything
- Toss the cooked angel hair pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Serving
- Add the seared scallops on top of the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
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