Scallops With Spicy Tomatoes & Fettuccine
Description
This elegant yet approachable dish combines the sweet, tender texture of pan-seared sea scallops with a robust, spicy tomato sauce. The sauce is built with fresh chopped tomatoes, red wine, and a splash of vinegar for brightness, simmered with garlic, scallions, and fresh herbs to create a deeply flavorful base. The fettuccine acts as the perfect vehicle, soaking up the savory juices while providing a satisfying chew. Its an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special enough for date night. The combination of rich seafood, bright acidity, and mild heat creates a balanced flavor profile that appeals to seafood lovers and pasta fans alike. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Rinse the sea scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels; set aside.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
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In a large saut pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Add the chopped scallions, minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, red wine, red wine vinegar, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper to the pan.
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Cook the sauce mixture for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is vigorously boiling.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente.
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While the pasta cooks, add the scallops to the simmering tomato sauce.
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Cook the scallops in the sauce for 5 to 7 minutes, turning once, until they are opaque and cooked through.
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Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the pan with the scallops and sauce.
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Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
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Serve immediately, sprinkling each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnishing with fresh parsley sprigs.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 333.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11.8g19%
- Saturated Fat 2.3g12%
- Cholesterol 66.6mg23%
- Sodium 1068.1mg45%
- Total Carbohydrate 18.1g7%
- Dietary Fiber 1.7g7%
- Sugars 12.8g
- Protein 27.6g56%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the sauce initially if you want a thicker consistency, though simmering reduces it nicely.
Scallops cook quickly; avoid overcooking them as they can become rubbery. They are done when they turn opaque white.
If fresh tomatoes are not in season, use high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for a consistent texture and flavor.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; add a splash to the pan if the sauce seems too thick for the pasta.