Pasta With Scallops And Lemon Mustard Butter
A quick, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender scallops in a zesty lemon mustard butter sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the white wine and grated lemon peel to a simmer in a heavy skillet.
- Add the bay scallops and cook until opaque, about 60 to 90 seconds.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the scallops to a bowl.
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions.
- In the skillet, stir in Dijon mustard and butter until melted.
- Drain the pasta and toss with the sauce in the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a dry vermouth instead of white wine. If you can't find bay scallops, sea scallops can be used but should be cut into smaller pieces. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for freshness. This dish can also be served with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta immediately after tossing with the sauce for the best texture. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving it alongside Scalloped Oysters Supreme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or broth to prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Scallops And Lemon Mustard Butter contains roughly 496 calories, with 26g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (888% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (137% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly. Frozen scallops may release more water, so cook them a bit longer to achieve the desired texture.
What other types of pasta can I use?
While angel hair is ideal for this dish, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, ensuring the pasta remains al dente for the best results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently to maintain the scallops' texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).