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Seared Scallop Pesto Pasta

Irresistibly Easy Seared Scallop Pesto Pasta for Gourmet Nights

Enjoy the delightful Seared Scallop Pesto Pasta, a gourmet dish that combines tender scallops with vibrant pesto.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces Pasta Base of the dish; use any favorite pasta shape for delightful texture.

For the Pesto Sauce

  • 1/2 cup Pesto Provides vibrant flavor; can be fresh or store-bought.

For the Scallops

  • 1 1/2 pounds Jumbo Sea Scallops Adds luxury to the dish; rinsed and prepped for cooking.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Avocado Oil High smoke point oil ideal for searing scallops.
  • Kosher Salt To season scallops; enhances the natural flavors.
  • Ground Black Pepper Enhances the dish's flavor with subtle heat.

Optional Flavor Boosters

  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Toasted for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  • 14 ounces Roasted Red Peppers For sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Slow Roasted Cherry Tomatoes For juicy, tangy contrast.
  • Lemon Zest Adds freshness and brightness to the dish.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For those who enjoy a touch of heat.
  • Fresh Basil Enhances color and complements the pesto beautifully.
  • Grated Parmesan A classic finishing touch, adding rich, savory flavor.

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, letting its warmth linger.
  • In a large skillet, heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat until shimmering, perfect for searing those gorgeous scallops.
  • Add 1/4 cup of pine nuts to the pan. Toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
  • Season 1 1/2 pounds of jumbo sea scallops with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and delicately golden.
  • Lower the heat and gently stir in 1/2 cup of pesto, mixing well with the scallops and toasted pine nuts, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it with the scallop and pesto mixture until every strand is evenly coated and embraces that vibrant flavor.
  • Serve your creation warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as roasted red peppers, slow-roasted cherry tomatoes, or freshly grated Parmesan.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta without toppings for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Easy Dinner, Gourmet Pasta, Pasta Recipe, Pesto Pasta, Seafood Pasta, Seared Scallop Pesto Pasta
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