Orange Sea Scallops

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Servings: 4 Difficulty: Advanced
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Seared sea scallops with a bright orange-Dijon vinalette over wilted spinach
Orange Sea Scallops recipe image
Orange Sea Scallops recipe image
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Orange Sea Scallops

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4 Calories: 16.5

Description

This elegant yet simple dish showcases the sweet, delicate flavor of pan-seared sea scallops paired with a vibrant orange and Dijon dressing. The scallops are quickly cooked to achieve a golden crust while remaining tender inside, served atop a bed of lightly wilted fresh spinach. The citrusy vinalette adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the seafood, creating a balanced and refreshing meal. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special weeknight treat, this recipe comes together quickly using high-quality ingredients. The combination of texturescrisp-tender spinach and succulent scallopsmakes for a sophisticated presentation that feels restaurant-quality. It is an excellent choice for seafood lovers seeking a light but satisfying Mediterranean-inspired main course.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly and remove any tough stems.
  2. Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels; this is crucial for getting a good sear.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of black pepper.
  4. Slowly drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil while whisking constantly to create an emulsion.
  5. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the chopped chives and season the dressing with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  6. Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  7. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
  8. Add half of the scallops to the hot skillet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
  9. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes without moving them, until a golden-brown crust forms.
  10. Flip the scallops and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until opaque in the center.
  11. Remove the first batch of scallops to a warm plate and repeat with the second batch.
  12. While the scallops cook, place the spinach in the same skillet over medium heat.
  13. Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring once, until the spinach is just wilted.
  14. Drain any excess liquid from the spinach.
  15. Arrange the wilted spinach in the center of a large serving platter, spreading it slightly toward the rim.
  16. Place the seared scallops attractively on top of the spinach bed.
  17. Drizzle the orange-Dijon dressing over the scallops and spinach.
  18. Garnish with the remaining chopped chives and the finely grated orange zest.
  19. Serve immediately while the scallops are still warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 16.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.3g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 49.9mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 2.8g1%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g5%
Sugars 0.9g
Protein 1.6g4%

* 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: orange, scallops, seafood, spinach, dijon, mustard, seared, quick, dinner, mediterranean, gluten-free, citrus, healthy, easy, pan-seared, vinaigrette
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