Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries the sweetness of pumpkin with the delicate flavor of scallops! Our Spicy Scallops with Pumpkin Puree is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will elevate your dining table to gourmet status. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your guests or indulge in a cozy dinner for two with this easy yet sophisticated recipe. Ready to dive into this delightful fusion of flavors? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g scallops
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 200g of scallops, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a good sear.
- In a small bowl, combine the chili flakes, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoning for the scallops.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until it shimmers.
- Once the oil is hot, season the scallops with the chili flakes mixture on both sides.
- Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a golden crust.
- Flip the scallops gently using tongs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the pumpkin puree and stir it gently to heat through, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pumpkin puree is heated and well combined, remove it from the heat.
- To serve, spoon a generous amount of pumpkin puree onto each plate and arrange the seared scallops on top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Enjoy your Spicy Scallops with Pumpkin Puree while hot!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor and texture, select fresh scallops from your local seafood market. Look for ones that are plump and have a slight sheen.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Make sure to thoroughly dry the scallops before cooking. This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust that adds depth to the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing scallops, give them enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of sear, preventing that delicious crust from forming.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more!
- Enhance the Pumpkin Puree: For extra richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a pinch of nutmeg to the pumpkin puree while heating it up.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh parsley adds color, but you can also experiment with microgreens or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot right after cooking. The scallops will lose their tender texture if left to sit for too long.Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning plate of Spicy Scallops with Pumpkin Puree that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
