Imagine a dish that transports you to a coastal paradise with every bite - where succulent shrimp and tender scallops dance with a bright, zesty orange vinaigrette. This Steamed Shrimp and Scallops recipe is not just a meal, it's a culinary escape that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for seafood lovers and gourmet enthusiasts, this recipe combines simplicity with sophisticated flavors that will make your dinner guests think you've trained in a professional kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound scallops
- 1 orange, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the shrimp and scallops. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled and deveined, and the scallops are cleaned and patted dry with paper towels. This will help them sear nicely during cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of one orange, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended to create the orange vinaigrette. Set aside.
- Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a gentle boil. If you have a steamer basket, place it in the pot. If not, you can use a heat-safe plate or a colander that fits inside the pot without touching the water.
- Once the water is boiling, add the shrimp and scallops to the steamer basket or plate. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the seafood for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the scallops are firm and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
- While the seafood is steaming, prepare your serving plates. Drizzle a bit of the orange vinaigrette on each plate to create a flavorful base.
- Once the shrimp and scallops are cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer and place them on the prepared plates. Drizzle the remaining orange vinaigrette over the seafood.
- Garnish the dish with fresh dill for an added touch of flavor and presentation. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Freshness is key: Always use the freshest seafood possible. Look for shrimp and scallops that smell clean and ocean-like, without any strong fishy odors.
- Avoid overcooking: Seafood cooks quickly! Watch your steaming time carefully - 5-7 minutes is typically perfect. Overcooked shrimp and scallops become rubbery and lose their delicate texture.
- Pat seafood dry: Before steaming, ensure shrimp and scallops are thoroughly patted dry. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents excess moisture.
- Use a timer: Set a precise timer to guarantee perfectly cooked seafood every time.
- Fresh herbs matter: The dill garnish isn't just decorative - it adds a subtle, fresh flavor that complements the citrusy vinaigrette.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to preserve its delicate texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 250mg
