Name: Elegant Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Angel Hair Pasta (A delicate base that cooks quickly.); 2 tbsp Butter (Adds richness; olive oil works for dairy-free.); 2 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced.); 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice (Provides acidity.); 1 lb Sea Scallops (Ensure they're dry for optimal searing.); 1 tbsp Fresh Basil (Adds sweetness.); 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Flat-leaf preferred.); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Can be omitted for a lighter touch.); 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Use sparingly.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling garlic filled the air, instantly transporting me to a coastal restaurant I once adored. The heart of today’s recipe is the elegant Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta, a dish I often whip up when I want to impress but don’t have hours to spare. In just 20 minutes, you can create this quick yet sophisticated meal that perfectly marries tender scallops and delicate pasta. It’s an adaptable recipe too—whether you lean toward creaminess or prefer it dairy-free, this dish can cater to all your cravings. The best part? This delightful dinner transforms a simple weeknight into a culinary celebration. Ready to bring the taste of the ocean to your table? Let’s dive in!

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta fd3d7j

Why is this recipe a weeknight winner?

Simplicity at its Best: The 20-minute prep and cook time means you can enjoy a gourmet meal without sacrificing your evening.

Elegant Flavor: The combination of seared scallops with the lightness of angel hair pasta creates a delightful flavor profile that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Versatile Options: Whether you crave creamy richness or a lighter, dairy-free dish, this recipe offers options to suit your dietary preferences, making it perfect for everyone.

Impressive Presentation: With just a few fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice, you’ll create a dish that’s visually stunning and full of gourmet flair, ensuring you wow your guests.

Easy Serving Suggestions: Pair it with a lightarugula salad or roasted vegetables to elevate your dining experience. Want more pasta ideas? Check out my Pesto Caprese Pasta for another delightful twist!

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Ingredients

• Create your culinary masterpiece with these essential ingredients!

For the Pasta

Angel Hair Pasta – A delicate base that cooks quickly, giving the dish a light, elegant texture.

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture; olive oil works for a dairy-free option.
Garlic – Freshly minced for the best aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Provides the necessary acidity to brighten the scallops and herbs.

For the Scallops

Sea Scallops – The star of the dish; ensure they’re dry for optimal searing.

For the Herbs

Fresh Basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic quality, elevating the seafood experience.
Fresh Parsley – Introduces a bright, peppery note; flat-leaf is preferred for a better flavor.

Seasonings

Salt and Black Pepper – Crucial for bringing out the natural flavors in the dish.

Optional for Creaminess

Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the sauce; can be omitted for a lighter touch.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers umami flavor; use sparingly to maintain balance with the scallops.

Elevate your Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta with these delightful ingredients and enjoy a gourmet meal right at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Carefully add the angel hair pasta and cook for about 4 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to remain warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As the butter starts to foam, add the freshly minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. The garlic should become lightly golden; this aroma will set the stage for the delicious Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta that follows.

Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Gently add the dry sea scallops to the skillet, ensuring they have enough space to sear properly without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Flip the scallops and add chopped basil and parsley as they finish cooking, which should take another 2 minutes until they are opaque and firm to the touch.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops and sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently mix the ingredients, allowing the bright lemon flavor to infuse the dish while the chopped herbs release their aromas into the skillet.

Step 5: Add Cream (Optional)
If you desire a richer sauce, this is the moment to stir in heavy cream, mixing it thoroughly into the skillet to thicken the sauce. Let this simmer for an additional minute to meld the flavors together, ensuring the creamy texture envelops the scallops beautifully.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta
Add the drained angel hair pasta into the skillet, tossing it carefully to coat each strand in the luscious lemon-butter sauce and distribute the scallops evenly throughout. This step transforms the dish into a harmonious Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta that’s ready for serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta warm right from the skillet to retain its delicate flavor and texture. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and additional herbs for an extra touch of elegance. This final step enhances both the taste and presentation, creating a stunning plate for you and your guests.

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta bifzpf

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists and substitutions that elevate your dish and adapt it to your unique taste!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a rich yet lighter texture without dairy. It adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with scallops.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a delightful heat that enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Perfect for those who like a bit of spice!
Lemon Zest Boost: Grate some fresh lemon zest onto the finished dish to amplify the citrus notes, creating an incredibly fresh taste that dances on your palate.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some sautéed cherry tomatoes or spinach with the scallops for added color and nutrition, transforming your dish into a vibrant, veggie-packed meal.
Wine Reduction: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine after sautéing garlic for deeper flavor complexity. Allow it to simmer before adding the scallops for an extra layer of sophistication.
Herb Celebration: Elevate your dish by exchanging basil for fresh dill or tarragon, introducing new aromatic dimensions that complement the scallops splendidly.
Flavorful Broth: Use seafood or vegetable broth instead of water for boiling your pasta to infuse extra flavor into the angel hair, ensuring every bite is rich and savory.
Garlic Butter Pasta: If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, finish off with a dollop of garlic butter, similar to what you’d find in my Garlic Butter Pasta recipe, for that extra indulgence.

Whichever variation you choose, your Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta will be a truly personal culinary creation!

What to Serve with Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta

Indulge in a delightful dining experience by pairing your elegant dish with complementary sides that enhance its flavors.

Crisp Arugula Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette perfectly balances the rich scallops, adding a refreshing crunch that elevates the meal.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, oven-roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and sea salt adds vibrant color and earthy flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the scallops.
Garlic Bread: Golden, crusty garlic bread is always a hit. Not only does it soak up the luscious lemon-butter sauce, but it also adds a comforting heartiness to your plate.
Chardonnay Wine: A chilled glass of buttery Chardonnay brings out the sweetness of the scallops while maintaining an elegant vibe, making it an ideal beverage choice.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, substitute angel hair pasta with zucchini noodles. They absorb flavors wonderfully and add a fresh twist to your dish.
Creamy Risotto: Rich and creamy risotto accentuates the seafood’s elegance, providing a comforting contrast in texture while remaining indulgent and satisfying.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal on a refreshing note with lemon sorbet. This light dessert cleanses the palate and keeps the citrus theme alive.
Sautéed Green Beans: Bright, sautéed green beans add a pop of color and a crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender scallops, making each bite more enjoyable.

Storage Tips for Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta

Fridge: Store cooked Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, this will help maintain its flavor for short-term storage.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the pasta and scallops in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, but be aware that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce and prevent drying out.

Avoid Dish Quality Loss: If storing, it’s best to keep the scallops and pasta separate until ready to eat, as combining them may affect the texture.

Expert Tips for Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta

Dry Scallops First: Pat the scallops thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they’re dry before cooking, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing scallops. Cook them in batches if needed to ensure they brown well instead of steaming.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and lemon juice for the best flavor profile in your Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta; dry ingredients simply won’t compare.
Taste as You Go: Season incrementally and taste while preparing to adjust salt and pepper to your preference. The balance of flavors is key to this elegant dish.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh out of the skillet to get the full warm and silky experience that keeps the flavors vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

These Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dinner even on your busiest weeknights! You can prepare the angel hair pasta and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-season the scallops (but do not cook them yet) and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the scallops and garlic, then toss in the previously cooked pasta, adding a splash of lemon juice and any optional ingredients. This way, you’ll savor restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze!

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta ffysu9

Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for dry sea scallops, which are preferable because they’ve been minimally processed to retain their sweet flavor and sear beautifully. Avoid wet scallops, as they are often soaked in a preservative that can affect their searing ability and texture.

How should I store leftovers of Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta?
To store your cooked dish, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1-2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. While the flavor will still be nice, the texture may slightly differ compared to when fresh.

Can I freeze Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta?
Certainly! You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. To do this, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. For best results, store the scallops and pasta separately, if possible, to maintain the best texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my scallops don’t sear well?
If your scallops don’t achieve that lovely golden color, don’t fret! Here are some tips to ensure a perfect sear next time:

Make sure the scallops are completely dry by patting them down with paper towels prior to cooking.
Heat your skillet until it’s quite hot before adding the scallops; this ensures they caramelize correctly.
Avoid overcrowding the pan – cook in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and allows them to develop a good crust.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe can be easily adapted. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and choose coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Additionally, if you or your guests are seafood-sensitive, be aware that scallops are a shellfish; that being said, they can be replaced with firm tofu for a vegetarian option that can still absorb those lovely flavors.

How do I know if my scallops are cooked properly?
Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, usually achieved around 4-5 minutes of cooking. If they’re translucent in the center, they require just a little more cooking time. The key is to get them tender while ensuring they don’t overcook, which can result in a rubbery texture. Trust your senses, and keep an eye on them as they sizzle!