Basil Pan-Seared Scallops Over Pasta: Fresh scallops sautéed in garlic butter, topped with basil & served over alfredo pasta. #pansearedscallops #basilpasta #alfredo #seafooddinner
- Start by patting your scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer and let them cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
**2. Cook the Pasta:**
- While the scallops are searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside; reserve some pasta water for later use.
**3. Sauté Garlic and Basil:**
- In the same pan used for searing scallops, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in chopped basil leaves and cook for another 30 seconds to infuse flavors without cooking them too much.
**4. Combine Ingredients:**
- Gently toss the cooked pasta with the garlic, basil mixture.
- If necessary, add a little bit of reserved pasta water to make the sauce smooth and creamy.
- Add the pan-seared scallops on top of the pasta, ensuring each piece is well coated.
**5. Season and Serve:**
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness and flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with extra chopped basil leaves.
#### Tips:
- **Freshness Matters:** Use fresh scallops for the best results. If using frozen ones, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
- **Proper Pan Searing:** Ensure the pan is hot enough to form a nice crust on the scallops without overcooking the center.
- **Flavorful Pasta Sauce:** The combination of garlic and basil creates a flavorful base for your pasta. Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or red pepper flakes if you prefer.
#### SEO Optimization:
- Utilize keywords such as "pan-seared scallops," "basil pasta," and "fresh seafood" in your recipe description.
- Include bullet points for easy readability, making it simple for search engines to index the content.
- Encourage engagement by mentioning that this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or date night at home.
Enjoy your delicious basil pan-seared scallops over pasta!