Creamy Bay Scallop Spaghetti

Name: Creamy Bay Scallop Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 300 grams spaghetti; 450 grams bay scallops (patted dry); 2 tablespoons olive oil

30 min 4 servings Medium

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Indulge in this luscious creamy bay scallop spaghetti, a delightful seafood pasta dish that's perfect for any special occasion dinner.

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

This Creamy Bay Scallop Spaghetti is a luxurious seafood pasta dish that brings the delicate sweetness of bay scallops together with a rich, creamy sauce. It's a perfect choice for a special dinner or when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent. The blend of garlic, lemon, and cream enhances the natural flavour of the scallops, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more. With its quick preparation time, this dish is ideal for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Pro tip: Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.

Start the sauce

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Add cream and cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Pro tip: Lower heat to avoid curdling the cream.

Season the sauce

Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Cook the scallops

In another pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bay scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are opaque and cooked through.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

Combine and serve

Add the cooked spaghetti and scallops to the sauce. Toss to coat, using reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh bay scallops for the best flavour.
Don't overcook the scallops; they should be tender and juicy.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in creamy bay scallop spaghetti?

A serving of creamy bay scallop spaghetti contains approximately 680 calories.

What is the best way to cook bay scallops?

Bay scallops are best cooked by searing quickly over medium-high heat until opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking.

What type of pasta works best with scallops?

Spaghetti or linguine pairs well with scallops as they allow the sauce to coat the pasta evenly.

How do I prevent scallops from becoming rubbery?

Avoid overcooking the scallops. Cook them over medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes until opaque.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy bay scallop spaghetti with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat gently and add the freshly cooked pasta and scallops when you're ready to serve.

Nutrition per serving

680

Calories

35g

Protein

34g

Fat

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