Scallops Scampi
Succulent scallops are cooked with aromatic garlic, onion, and fresh parsley, then served over linguini with cheese for a flavorful, elegant seafood pasta dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy frypan, sauté onion, garlic, and parsley in oil until the onion is tender but not browned.
- Add scallops and simmer, turning often, until cooked (about 10 minutes).
- Season to taste, then sprinkle hot, cooked linguini liberally with grated cheese.
- Spoon the scallop mixture over the linguini and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and oil for sautéing. If scallops aren't available, shrimp can be a great substitute; simply adjust the cooking time. Fresh herbs like basil or chives can enhance the dish. To save time, pre-cooked linguini can be used, and make sure to rinse it in cold water if not serving immediately to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops scampi over a bed of linguini with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a generous amount of grated cheese. A side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad would complement this dish beautifully. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, enhancing the seafood flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the scallops and linguini in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can overcook the scallops.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops Scampi contains roughly 265 calories, with 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1063mg per serving (46% 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 in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps maintain their texture and ensures even cooking. Pat them dry before adding to the pan to achieve a nice sear.
What if I don't have linguini?
If linguini isn't on hand, any pasta shape will work, but consider using fettuccine or spaghetti for a similar texture. Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it is perfectly al dente.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and garlic. You can also serve the dish with a side of chili oil or hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).