Scallop Spaghetti in White Wine Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of seafood and pasta, featuring succulent scallops seared to a golden crisp and paired with a creamy white wine sauce that adds depth and flavor. The addition of capers introduces a sharp contrast, balancing the richness of the sauce. Not only is this dish indulgent, but it’s also relatively simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without much hassle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

White Wine Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Pasta

• 8 oz spaghetti

Seared Scallops

• 1 pound medium-sized scallops (about 12-14), thawed completely if frozen
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season them with salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the White Wine Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and bring to a boil. Reduce the wine by half, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in capers, lemon juice, and salt to taste.

3. Cook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

4. Combine: Toss the pasta in the white wine sauce, adding reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed. Plate the pasta, top with seared scallops, and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Pastas: You can substitute spaghetti with other long pasta types like fettuccine, linguine, or pappardelle.
• Cheese Options: Try using different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago in the sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Wine Choices: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio are great options for the white wine sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta and scallops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I prevent scallops from overcooking?

Ensure that you don’t overcrowd the pan while searing and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spaghetti with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.

What wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works best for the white wine sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, roasted asparagus or green beans would pair wonderfully with the scallops and pasta.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

The sauce can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat it gently before combining with the pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the pasta with gluten-free spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this without the capers?

Yes, you can skip the capers if you prefer a milder flavor, though they do add a unique tangy note.

What can I serve this with?

This scallop spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Scallop spaghetti in white wine sauce is a deliciously indulgent yet easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of perfectly seared scallops, creamy white wine sauce, and pasta is sure to impress. Whether you're a seafood lover or looking for a new way to enjoy pasta, this recipe is a must-try.