Gulf Coast Scallops

Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
Pan-seared sweet scallops with wilted spinach and a light garlic butter sauce
Gulf Coast Scallops recipe image

These Gulf Coast Scallops offer a quick, elegant seafood experience that tastes far more complex than it is to make. The key is getting a golden, crispy crust on the scallops while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Paired with fresh spinach that wilts quickly in the same pan, absorbing the savory juices and garlic aroma, this dish is a perfect balance of textures. It’s an ideal choice for a romantic weeknight dinner or a light summer meal. Simple ingredients shine here, making it a reliable favorite for seafood lovers who appreciate clean, fresh flavors without heavy sauces or complicated techniques.

Gulf Coast Scallops

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 104.8

Description

These Gulf Coast Scallops offer a quick, elegant seafood experience that tastes far more complex than it is to make. The key is getting a golden, crispy crust on the scallops while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Paired with fresh spinach that wilts quickly in the same pan, absorbing the savory juices and garlic aroma, this dish is a perfect balance of textures. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal choice for a romantic weeknight dinner or a light summer meal. Simple ingredients shine here, making it a reliable favorite for seafood lovers who appreciate clean, fresh flavors without heavy sauces or complicated techniques.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water, then pat them very dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the dried scallops lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
  4. Carefully place the scallops in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not crowded, and sear without moving them for 2 minutes until a golden crust forms.
  5. Flip the scallops and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until just opaque in the center, then remove them from the pan and set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  7. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and toss until it is just wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  8. Return the seared scallops to the pan to warm through briefly, then serve immediately over the spinach.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 104.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.9g2%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 39.7mg14%
Sodium 652.4mg28%
Total Carbohydrate 6.9g3%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 6.2g
Protein 15.4g31%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: scallops, spinach, seafood, gulf coast, pan seared, garlic, butter, quick dinner, healthy, low carb, keto friendly, easy recipe, weeknight meal, fresh seafood, vegetarian side
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious