Scallops With Herb Sauce
Delicately tender sea scallops paired with a vibrant herb sauce and colorful vegetable accompaniments make for an elegant and fresh dish. The combination of seafood, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs appeals to those seeking a light yet flavorful meal perfect for entertaining or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut 2 carrots and 2 turnips into bite-sized pieces.
- Make 4 cucumber cylinders by cutting each cucumber in half, removing the pulp, and slicing off the ends.
- Cook the turnip pieces, carrot pieces, and cucumber cylinders until tender.
- Cook the asparagus tips separately until tender.
- Save the asparagus stalks for making the herb sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant herb sauce, blend the asparagus stalks with fresh herbs like parsley and basil for a refreshing taste. If you don't have asparagus, consider using spinach or arugula. Ensure the scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute the scallops with grilled chicken or shrimp from your favorite chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops atop a bed of Boston lettuce and garnish with chives for added flavor and color. Pair this dish with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing salad like Artichoke Rice Salad for a complete meal. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding olives or feta cheese on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover scallops and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops With Herb Sauce contains roughly 755 calories, with 31g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (411% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (142% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1561mg per serving (68% 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
What can I use instead of sea scallops?
If you can't find sea scallops, you can substitute with bay scallops, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as shrimp will cook faster and tofu may need a bit more seasoning.
How do I know when the scallops are cooked perfectly?
Scallops are perfectly cooked when they are opaque and have a slightly firm texture. Overcooking them can lead to a rubbery consistency, so aim for about 2-3 minutes per side on a hot pan, depending on their size.
Can I prepare the herb sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the herb sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate while sitting.
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).