Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops

Introduction

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures. This dish features tender scallops seared to perfection and coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s a perfect meal for special occasions or just a fancy dinner at home.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick yet impressive dish to serve, look no further! Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of scallops with a creamy sauce and fresh ingredients makes for a dish that is both satisfying and elegant. Plus, it comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound scallops
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup Parmesan cheese
1 cup spinach, chopped
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes

Directions:

Seared Scallops: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and sizzling, pat the scallops dry with paper towels to help develop a golden crust. Place the scallops in a single layer in the skillet, searing until golden on one side, then flipping to sear the other side. Once cooked, transfer the scallops to a plate.
Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the additional 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, whisking the mixture until it begins to thicken.
Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Gently introduce the sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach into the sauce. Allow the spinach to wilt while the sauce simmers.
Combine Scallops with Sauce: Carefully return the seared scallops to the sauce, tossing them lightly to coat in the creamy mixture.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops over pasta or alongside your favorite side dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops

These scallops can be served over a bed of pasta, rice, or even alongside crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, allowing the rich flavors of the scallops to shine.

How to Store Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy them within 2 days for the best flavor and quality. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops.

Tips to Make Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops

Ensure the scallops are dry before searing to achieve a nice crust.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Keep the heat at medium-high when searing to avoid burning the scallops.
Feel free to adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more or less chicken broth, depending on your preference.

Variation (If Any)

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to enhance the dish further.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before searing.

2. What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops? This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.

3. How do I know when scallops are cooked? Scallops should be opaque and have a golden crust on both sides. If they are translucent, they need more time to cook.

Enjoy making and savoring this elegant yet simple dish!