Are you ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and elevate your dinner game? Dive into the delicious world of "Scallops with Mushrooms and Spinach," a dish that combines the delicate sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and vibrant spinach. In just 25 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen! Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to be a showstopper. Read on to discover how to make this delightful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 large scallops
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures they will sear properly and develop a golden-brown crust.
- Season both sides of the scallops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the scallops in the hot pan, making sure they are not touching each other. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Gently flip the scallops using tongs and cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove scallops from the pan and set aside on a warm plate.
- In the same pan, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and have released their moisture.
- Add fresh spinach to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts and becomes tender, stirring occasionally.
- Return the scallops to the pan briefly to reheat and combine with the mushrooms and spinach.
- Plate the scallops with the mushroom and spinach mixture, garnishing with additional fresh ground pepper if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Scallops: Look for large, fresh scallops with a sweet aroma. Avoid any that have a strong fishy smell, as this indicates they may not be fresh.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Ensure your scallops are patted dry before seasoning. This crucial step helps achieve that coveted golden-brown crust when searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each scallop enough space in the pan to sear properly. Cooking them in batches is a great way to ensure they cook evenly.
- Master the Heat: Keep an eye on your oil temperature! It should shimmer but not smoke. This balance is key to achieving a perfect sear without burning.
- Enhance the Flavor: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley to the mushroom and spinach mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh off the pan. Serve them right away to maintain their tender texture and delightful flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly ground pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the presentation and taste, making your dish look as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
