Scallop And Bacon Linguine
A rich and savory linguine dish featuring tender scallops and crispy bacon, complemented by parsley and clam juice for a flavorful seafood experience perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer bacon to a large serving bowl.
- Discard all but 1 tablespoon of drippings from the skillet.
- Add minced shallots and sea scallops to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 4 minutes.
- Transfer scallops to the bowl with bacon.
- Add clam juice to the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked linguine with the bacon, scallops, parsley, and olive oil in the skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try using pancetta instead of bacon. You can also substitute the sea scallops with shrimp or even cooked chicken for a different protein. Be sure not to overcook the scallops; they should be golden and tender. If you're looking for a veggie dish, adding spinach or arugula at the end can enhance the dish's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This scallop and bacon linguine pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a touch of brightness, serve with a lemon wedge on the side. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly. For more Italian recipes, consider exploring variations like Spaghetti Alla Carbonara.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of clam juice or olive oil to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallop And Bacon Linguine contains roughly 532 calories, with 40g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (190% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the bacon and scallops ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the linguine and clam sauce when ready to serve. This will help maintain the texture of the scallops.
What can I use if I can't find clam juice?
If clam juice is unavailable, you can substitute it with seafood stock or chicken broth for a similar taste. However, clam juice adds a unique depth to the dish, so try to use it if possible.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and scallops, and instead using sautéed mushrooms and a plant-based protein like tofu. Use vegetable broth in place of clam juice for a flavorful base.
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).