Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
