Scallop Spaghetti in White Wine Sauce
This Scallop Spaghetti in White Wine Sauce is a decadent and indulgent dish that combines tender seared scallops with a creamy white wine butter garlic sauce. Enhanced with capers and a splash of lemon juice, this recipe offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and delicate seafood, making it feel like a gourmet meal. Perfect for seafood lovers, it’s quick and easy to prepare for an elegant dinner at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian, Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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
Instructions
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Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season 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.
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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.
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Cook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
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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.
Notes
- Wine Pairing: A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio is ideal for the sauce.
- Vegetable Pairing: Roasted asparagus or green beans would complement the flavors of the dish.
- For Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
