If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly marries the vibrant flavors of summer with a touch of elegance, look no further than this Burst Tomato Pasta with Seared Scallops! Imagine succulent scallops seared to golden perfection, nestled atop a bed of al dente pasta, all tossed in a luscious sauce made from sweet, bursting cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic. This Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds, making it the ideal choice for a romantic dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that will leave your guests raving and your kitchen smelling heavenly!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 lb scallops
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and set them aside. Mince the garlic cloves and chop the fresh basil. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to burst and release their juices.
- Once the tomatoes are bursting, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- In a separate skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- After draining the pasta, add it directly to the skillet with the burst tomatoes and garlic. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the chopped basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, plate the pasta and top it with the seared scallops. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your Burst Tomato Pasta with Seared Scallops!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using spaghetti or fettuccine for a more classic presentation that complements the sauce beautifully.
- Perfectly Pat Dry: Make sure to pat your scallops dry before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted golden crust!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing scallops, cook them in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can cause them to steam instead of sear, preventing that delicious caramelization.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency and make it cling better to the pasta.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. The freshness of these ingredients is key to elevating the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference, and feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can take your dish from good to gourmet!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
