Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops: A Restaurant-Quality Seafood Dish

Introduction

Transport your taste buds to the Italian coast with these Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops – plump, golden-seared scallops swimming in a luxurious garlic cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. This elegant yet surprisingly simple dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Imagine sweet, buttery scallops paired with a velvety sauce that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors – it’s fine dining made accessible in your own kitchen.

Why These Scallops Will Impress Your Guests

Restaurant presentation with home cooking ease
Perfectly balanced flavors – rich yet bright
Quick cooking time – ready in under 30 minutes
Versatile – pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread

The magic happens when the scallops develop a beautiful caramelized crust while remaining tender inside, then get enveloped in a creamy sauce that perfectly complements their natural sweetness.

Ingredients for Coastal Italian Flavors

For the Scallops

• 1 lb large sea scallops (10-15 count)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Tuscan Cream Sauce

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienned, oil-packed)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken or seafood stock
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Chef’s Tip: Look for “dry” scallops (not treated with preservatives)

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat scallops very dry with paper towels
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper
3. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat
4. Add scallops, leaving space between each
5. Sear 2-3 minutes per side until golden
6. Remove and set aside

2. Make the Tuscan Sauce

1. In same skillet, melt butter over medium heat
2. Sauté garlic 30 seconds until fragrant
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, cook 1 minute
4. Deglaze with stock, scraping up browned bits
5. Stir in cream and Italian seasoning

3. Finish the Dish

1. Simmer sauce 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened
2. Whisk in Parmesan until melted
3. Add spinach, stir until just wilted
4. Return scallops to pan, spoon sauce over
5. Garnish with red pepper flakes and parsley

Professional Tips for Perfect Scallops

High heat is crucial for proper sear
Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed
Squeeze of lemon at end brightens flavors
Season just before cooking – prevents moisture loss

Serving Suggestions

Elegant Presentations:

• Serve over pappardelle or risotto
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves
• Accompany with crusty bread for sauce

Wine Pairings:

• Pinot Grigio (crisp white)
• Chardonnay (buttery)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Moving scallops too soon (won’t develop crust)
Using wet scallops (won’t sear properly)
Overcooking (becomes rubbery)
Boiling the sauce (may separate)

Creative Variations

For Different Tastes:

• Mushroom lovers: Add sautéed wild mushrooms
• Seafood medley: Include shrimp or mussels
• Lighter version: Substitute half cream with milk

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen scallops?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat extra dry.

Q: How do I know when scallops are done?
A: They should be opaque with slight resistance when pressed.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Best served fresh, but sauce can be made 1 day in advance.

Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Substitute with roasted red peppers.

Conclusion

These Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops bring the flavors of Italy to your table with minimal effort but maximum impact. With their perfect sear, luxurious sauce, and vibrant colors, they’re guaranteed to impress whether you’re cooking for a date night or treating yourself to something special.

Final Chef’s Secret: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle with truffle oil just before serving. The combination of sweet scallops, creamy sauce, and Mediterranean flavors creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated – perfect for any seafood lover!

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops: A Restaurant-Quality Seafood Dish

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 35 mins

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Description

Treat yourself to a taste of Tuscany with these indulgent Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops. Tender scallops in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, served over pasta for a luxurious dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound large sea scallops

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

2 cups fresh spinach leaves

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooked pasta of your choice (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Prepare the scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

 

Cook the scallops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside.

 

Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and dried Italian herbs. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

 

Add spinach and cheese: Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.

 

Combine scallops with sauce: Return scallops to the skillet and coat with the creamy Tuscan sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Notes

Serve Creamy Tuscan Garlic Scallops over cooked pasta, if desired. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.