There’s something magical about cooking seafood that brings a sense of joy to my kitchen. The aroma of fresh shrimp and scallops sizzling in a pan instantly transports me to a coastal paradise. One of my all-time favorite dishes is Shrimp Scallopini. This creamy seafood delight is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
As I whip up this dish, I can’t help but smile at how the creamy sauce envelops the tender shrimp and perfectly seared scallops. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of lemon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Join me as we dive into the world of Shrimp Scallopini, where every bite is a celebration of seafood goodness!
Ingredients List
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, cleaned
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
How to Prepare Shrimp Scallopini
Preparing Shrimp Scallopini is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both creamy and satisfying.
Cooking the Shrimp
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them to turn a lovely pink and opaque color. This is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking later!
Searing the Scallops
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Now, it’s time to sear the scallops. Place them in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor. Once they’re golden, remove the scallops and set them aside with the shrimp. Remember, scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
Making the Creamy Sauce
Now, let’s create that luscious sauce! In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is where the magic happens! Finally, mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combining Ingredients
It’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked shrimp and scallops to the skillet, gently tossing them in the creamy sauce. Heat everything through for about 1-2 minutes. This final step ensures that the seafood is warmed and coated in that delicious sauce. Now, you’re ready to serve your Shrimp Scallopini over cooked pasta or rice, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy every bite of this seafood sensation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Delight: The creamy sauce, combined with garlic and Parmesan, creates a rich flavor that seafood lovers will adore.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish over pasta or rice, and it looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for entertaining.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and scallops, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
Tips for Success
To make your Shrimp Scallopini truly shine, here are some practical tips that I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
Choose Fresh Seafood: Always opt for the freshest shrimp and scallops you can find. Fresh seafood makes a world of difference in flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking shrimp and scallops, give them space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects the texture.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. For a milder version, skip them altogether or use just a pinch.
Use Quality Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish. It’s worth investing in a bottle that you enjoy drizzling over salads or dipping bread into.
Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor. Don’t skimp on the garnish; it elevates the dish visually and taste-wise.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after cooking to savor the creamy sauce and tender seafood at their peak.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Shrimp Scallopini that impresses your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Shrimp Scallopini, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your Shrimp Scallopini knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with protein and flavor!
FAQ Section
As you embark on your culinary journey with Shrimp Scallopini, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen seafood can be just as delicious as fresh, especially if you choose high-quality options. Just remember to pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What can I serve with Shrimp Scallopini?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked pasta or rice, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. It’s versatile enough to complement various sides!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat. Just be sure to taste as you go!
Can I make Shrimp Scallopini ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before adding the shrimp and scallops. However, I recommend cooking the seafood just before serving for the best texture.
Is Shrimp Scallopini gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free pasta or rice as a base. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious Shrimp Scallopini, you might have some leftovers. Storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
Cool Down: Allow the Shrimp Scallopini to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make the dish soggy.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. This keeps the dish fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from the fridge.
Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you think you won’t eat it within that time, consider freezing it.
Freezing: If you choose to freeze, make sure to use freezer-safe containers. Shrimp and scallops can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember that the texture may change slightly after thawing.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple:
Stovetop Method: The best way to reheat Shrimp Scallopini is on the stovetop. Place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help revive the sauce. Stir gently until heated through.
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the dish in a microwave-safe container, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Shrimp Scallopini just as much the next day! Happy eating!
Shrimp Scallopini is a creamy seafood dish featuring shrimp and scallops.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound scallops, cleaned
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the scallops and set aside with the shrimp.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the cooked shrimp and scallops to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them in the sauce. Heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
Serve the shrimp scallopini over cooked pasta or rice, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
This dish is best served immediately.
Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to your taste.
