White Cream Sauce For Scallops And Shrimp
A rich and creamy white sauce infused with Parmesan and basil, perfect for pairing with fresh scallops and shrimp over linguini. This velvety sauce offers a delicate balance of flavors that elevates seafood dishes, making it ideal for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in flour and cook briefly to form a roux.
- Gradually add water and milk, stirring constantly.
- Heat slowly until the mixture boils and thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil.
- Add pepper to taste.
- Serve the sauce over cooked linguini with fresh scallops and shrimp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots when melting the butter. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too. Stir in a splash of white wine for added depth and serve with Green (Spinach) Pasta for a vibrant plate.
Serving Suggestions
This white cream sauce pairs beautifully with cooked linguini, scallops, and shrimp. For a complete meal, serve with a side of Green Beans Italian or a light salad. Toasted Italian Bread Sticks make a great accompaniment for dipping into the sauce, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Cream Sauce For Scallops And Shrimp contains roughly 150 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently and add a little water or milk to restore its original texture before serving.
What can I substitute for scallops and shrimp?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. For a seafood alternative, try using cooked crab or lobster, which will complement the sauce nicely.
How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
To thicken the sauce, cook it a little longer after adding the water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thick, simply whisk in a bit more water or milk until you achieve the right 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).