Tuscan Butter Scallops are a delicious dish that brings together perfectly seared scallops and a rich, creamy sauce inspired by Italian cuisine. To make them, you'll need fresh scallops, butter, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, among other ingredients. The key is to sear the scallops for that golden crust before creating a flavorful sauce with deglazed wine, cream, and cheese. Serve them with zoodles or garlic bread for a delightful meal. Discover more about this enticing recipe.
History
Tuscan Butter Scallops draw inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of Italy, particularly the Tuscan region, known for its savory and vibrant dishes. This dish showcases high-quality seafood, combining seared scallops with a creamy sauce that features sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
The preparation method emphasizes the technique of searing scallops to achieve a golden crust, a hallmark of Italian cuisine that focuses on enhancing texture and flavor. The original concept emerged from Creamy Tuscan Shrimp, popularized by Bellinis, an Italian restaurant in Birmingham.
This fusion of seafood and creamy sauce not only reflects Tuscan flavors but also aligns with the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing healthy fats and proteins, making Tuscan Butter Scallops a delicious and well-balanced meal choice. Additionally, the use of high-quality seafood aligns with the increasing trend towards ethical sourcing in the food industry.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- Fresh scallops
- Salt
- Butter
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Dry white wine
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh baby spinach
Cooking Instructions:
Start by patting the scallops dry and seasoning them with salt.
In a hot skillet, melt some butter and sear the scallops for about 3 minutes on each side until they're golden brown. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
Then, deglaze the skillet with dry white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
Next, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Stir in the fresh baby spinach until wilted, return the cooked scallops to the skillet, and combine gently before serving.
Extra Tips:
When cooking scallops, make sure your skillet is hot to achieve that perfect golden crust without overcooking them, as they can become tough if cooked too long.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.
If you want to elevate the dish even further, try garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your Tuscan Butter Scallops with a glass of dry white wine to complement the meal!
Cooking Steps
To whip up delicious Tuscan Butter Scallops, you'll start by prepping the scallops for that perfect sear.
Once they're ready, you'll sear them until they're golden brown, then add garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
After that, it's time to deglaze the pan with white wine and stir in some heavy cream for a rich sauce.
Step 1. Prep Scallops for Cooking
Before you start cooking, prepping your scallops properly is essential for achieving that perfect sear.
Begin by making sure your scallops are thawed if previously frozen. You can do this by placing them in cold water for 10-20 minutes.
Next, pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent steaming in the pan. If you notice a side muscle, remove it, as it can be tough.
Season with salt on both sides to enhance their rich and creamy flavor. Allow scallops to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This promotes even cooking.
When ready, remember to avoid overcrowding your pan to maintain that beautiful sear you're aiming for.
Step 2. Sear Scallops Until Golden Brown
Once your scallops are prepped and ready, it's time to sear them to perfection.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it melts and bubbles.
Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms on one side.
Using tongs, flip the scallops and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring they remain firm yet slightly soft in the center.
Once done, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
Don't forget to reserve the drippings; they'll be essential for creating a delicious sauce later on.
Step 3. Add Garlic and Herbs
Now that your scallops are perfectly seared and set aside, it's time to infuse the dish with incredible flavor by adding garlic and herbs.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about a minute until it's fragrant, ensuring you're releasing those essential oils.
Next, add sun-dried tomatoes and dried herbs like basil and oregano to enhance that Tuscan flavor profile. Stir everything together, allowing the garlic and herbs to meld beautifully.
Once you've got a delicious aroma, you can incorporate a splash of white wine for added depth.
Finally, add heavy cream to create a rich sauce that'll coat your scallops perfectly. Adjust the garlic and herbs to suit your taste, and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Step 4. Deglaze Pan With White Wine
To enhance the flavors in your Tuscan Butter Scallops, deglazing the pan with white wine is essential.
After you've sautéed onions and garlic, add about 1/2 cup of dry white wine to the hot skillet. This step helps lift those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, bringing depth to your sauce.
As you pour in the wine, simmer it for about 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half. This intensifies the flavor while the wine's acidity balances the richness of the cream and butter you'll be using later.
Don't forget to scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon during deglazing, ensuring all those tasty bits are incorporated into your sauce. This process can be likened to how air purifiers target allergens, as it effectively enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Step 5. Stir in Heavy Cream
Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet, transforming your sauce into a rich and creamy delight.
Allow the cream to simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly. This creamy sauce will blend seamlessly with the sautéed ingredients, creating a luscious texture that beautifully coats the scallops.
Next, incorporate 1/2 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it's fully melted for added richness and depth of flavor.
Finally, verify the sauce is well-seasoned with freshly ground black pepper and adjust with salt as needed before adding the scallops back into the skillet.
Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors in your Tuscan Butter Scallops!
Final Thoughts
As you savor the last bites of your creamy Tuscan scallops, it's clear that this dish not only showcases the elegance of Italian cuisine but also elevates any dining experience.
The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and rich cream creates a sauce that perfectly complements the perfectly seared scallops. Cooking the scallops in a single layer guarantees that a golden crust forms, enhancing their texture and flavor.
Whether you serve them over zoodles for a lighter meal or with garlic bread for a comforting feast, your family loves this dish. Each bite transports you to Tuscany, making it a memorable addition to your culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Better to Cook Scallops in Oil or Butter?
When deciding whether to cook scallops in oil or butter, consider your desired flavor and texture.
Butter enhances the natural sweetness and adds creaminess, while oil provides a higher smoke point for a crispy sear.
Many chefs recommend using a combination of both: oil first to sear the scallops, then adding butter for flavor.
Remember to pat your scallops dry before cooking to guarantee a perfect sear without steaming.
Enjoy the delicious results!
Why Do You Soak Scallops in Milk Before Cooking?
Soaking scallops in milk before cooking serves several purposes.
It helps draw out impurities and any fishy odors, giving you a fresher flavor. The lactic acid in the milk tenderizes the scallops, enhancing their texture.
Plus, it removes excess moisture, allowing for a better sear and that coveted golden crust.
After soaking, make sure you pat them dry with paper towels to achieve the best cooking results and avoid rubbery scallops.
What Is the Secret to Searing Scallops?
Picture a sizzling skillet, the sound of a summer fair in the air.
The secret to searing scallops lies in preparation. First, make sure your skillet's hot, preheating it with oil.
Pat your scallops dry to avoid steaming. Once you add them, let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Use a high smoke point oil mixed with butter, and you'll achieve that perfect golden crust while keeping them tender inside.
What Sauce to Go With Scallops?
When it comes to sauces for scallops, you've got several delicious options. A creamy garlic butter sauce adds richness and enhances the scallops' natural flavors.
If you prefer something lighter, a lemon-herb vinaigrette offers a revitalizing contrast. For a savory touch, consider a broth-based sauce with fresh herbs that complements the seafood without overpowering it.
Remember to deglaze your pan with
