Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta is a light and elegant dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Tender scallops cooked in a buttery garlic sauce pair beautifully with delicate angel hair pasta and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) package angel hair pasta
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, about 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Stir in scallops, basil, and parsley. Cook until scallops are firm and opaque, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat and add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Step 5: If using, stir in the heavy cream to thicken the sauce slightly.
6. Step 6: Toss the cooked angel hair pasta into the skillet with the scallops and gently mix to coat.
7. Step 7: Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer sauce, add the heavy cream, but it’s just as delicious without it for a lighter meal.
• Use fresh sea scallops for the best flavor and texture; avoid scallops that are overly wet or frozen for too long.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a subtle spicy kick.
• Substitute fresh basil and parsley with fresh thyme or oregano for a different herb profile.

Storage

Store leftover scallops and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops. Adding a splash of cream or broth while reheating can help keep the sauce smooth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the sauce and texture.

What can I serve with Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta?

A light green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli complement this dish well and keep the meal balanced.

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 113 reviews

This elegant Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta recipe features tender, pan-seared sea scallops tossed with delicate angel hair pasta in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Optional additions of cream and Parmesan cheese add richness, making it a perfect, quick gourmet seafood pasta dish.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 (16 ounce) package angel hair pasta

Sea Scallops and Sauce

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook until al dente, about 4 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic to maintain a delicate aroma.
3. Cook the Scallops: Stir in the sea scallops along with the chopped basil and parsley. Cook the scallops until they turn firm and opaque, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes, ensuring even cooking by gently turning them if needed.
4. Add Seasoning and Lemon Juice: Lower the heat to medium-low and add in the fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture gently to evenly coat the scallops and infuse the sauce with bright, fresh flavors.
5. Optional Cream Addition: If using, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to slightly thicken the sauce, creating a rich and luscious texture that complements the scallops and pasta.
6. Toss Pasta and Scallops: Add the cooked angel hair pasta directly into the skillet with the scallops and sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly without breaking the delicate strands.
7. Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, to add a nutty, salty finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Notes

• Make sure to dry the scallops thoroughly before cooking to achieve a nice sear and prevent steaming.
• Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly; be careful not to overcook it to maintain its delicate texture.
• The heavy cream is optional and can be omitted for a lighter sauce.
• Fresh herbs like basil and parsley brighten the flavor but can be adjusted or substituted as desired.
• If Parmesan cheese is used, adjust salt carefully since it adds saltiness.

Keywords: sea scallops pasta, angel hair pasta seafood, garlic butter scallops, quick seafood pasta, scallop recipes