Scallops are a versatile seafood that can make any dish feel extra special. When combined with spinach and pasta, they create a delightful and luxurious meal that is perfect for a cozy night at home or a dinner party with friends. This recipe for Scallop Spinach Pasta strikes the right balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to option for any occasion.
**Scallop Spinach Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 ounces of linguine pasta
– 1 pound of fresh sea scallops
– 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of white wine
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by cooking the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely seared and opaque. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Return the scallops to the skillet, along with the cooked linguine pasta. Toss everything together gently, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the Scallop Spinach Pasta hot, garnished with some extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light salad on the side. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in each bite, and savor the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own cozy kitchen.
