a {simple} dinner recipe :: lemon scallop pasta

We tend to eat a lot of the same tried and true favorites over here, but every once in a while I like my kids to try new things! I realized they had never eaten scallops before so I bought some at the store to experiment with. While the larger sea scallops are wild-caught and likely the better choice in both flavor and sustainability, I went for the very cost-effective bay scallops.  If we decide to make this a usual rotation, I’ll do some more research on which scallops to buy.  This recipe was simple–and if scallops aren’t a big hit, there is at least pasta to eat!

Ingredients-one package pasta of your choice (I used angel hair), one pound of scallops (this is what I used.  Adjust to suit your family), 1/2 cup olive oil (divided), 5T  butter (divided), 2 T lemon juice, 4 cloves garlic, (minced, divided), basil (fresh or dried, to taste), salt and pepper to taste.

Directions.  Rinse scallops and soak in 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, salt and pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon each).  While scallops are marinating, start boiling water for the pasta and get out a large skillet to saute the scallops.  Add 1 T butter to the skillet.  When water is ready for pasta, turn the heat on the skillet to medium-high to melt the butter.  The scallops and pasta will take around the same amount of time to cook.  Add pasta to the pot. Using a slotted spoon, add scallops to the melted butter in the pan.  Cook scallops around 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on the outside.  If you are using large scallops, cook around 4 minutes per side.

In a small saucepan, melt remaining 4T butter.  Add 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1T dried basil (more if using fresh) and 1t salt.  Pour over drained pasta and serve scallops on top.  Garnish with more basil.  I served with parmesan cheese and Italian garlic seasoning.  Everyone in my family ate dinner!  Some liked it more than others but there was no gagging at the table and sometimes that’s all I need to call it a win. I loved it and was happy to have something different for dinner!

What recipes have been a hit at your house lately?