Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a dish that brings together gourmet flavors with simple preparation. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a cozy night in. With tender scallops paired with crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts, all drizzled in a luscious lemon butter sauce, this dish stands out for its taste and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts creates an irresistible balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an elegant main course or pair it with sides like rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish visually appealing, perfect for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To make Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Grill
• Baking Sheet
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Grill: Essential for achieving the perfect sear on scallops, creating a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender.
• Baking Sheet: Provides ample space to roast Brussels sprouts evenly, ensuring they become crisp without overcrowding.
• Saucepan: Necessary for making the smooth lemon butter sauce that ties the dish together.
• Whisk: Helps to emulsify ingredients in the sauce, ensuring a creamy consistency.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

• Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
• Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Sear each scallop for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
• Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Roast for 20-25 minutes until they are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

• Arrange the roasted Brussels sprouts on a platter.
• Top them with seared scallops.
• Drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts!

How to Serve Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Serving Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the scallops and sprouts, adding freshness to each bite.

Add a Grain Side

• Serving the scallops with quinoa or brown rice provides a hearty base that balances the dish. Consider cooking the grains in broth for added flavor.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• For added richness, drizzle more Lemon Butter Sauce over the dish before serving. This enhances the overall taste and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds color and an aromatic touch, brightening up the plate visually and flavor-wise.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• Including lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus to their plates, enhancing the dish’s brightness.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

To achieve perfect seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Choose quality scallops: Always select fresh sea scallops for the best taste. Look for a slightly sweet aroma and avoid any that smell fishy.

• Preheat your skillet: Ensure your skillet or grill is hot before adding scallops. A hot surface helps create a perfect sear and prevents sticking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature, leading to uneven cooking.

• Season generously: Proper seasoning is key. Be sure to season both the scallops and Brussels sprouts well for maximum flavor.

• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your scallops while cooking. They should be golden brown on each side, taking about 2-3 minutes per side.

• Check doneness: Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to touch. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Pairing side dishes with Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting contrast to the dish’s texture.

2. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs brings freshness and crunch that complements the main dish.

3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and pairs wonderfully with both components of this dish.

4. Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon juice and fresh herbs creates a bright flavor profile that lifts the meal.

5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic provides a nutritious option that cooks rapidly alongside other elements.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making for a delightful contrast against savory scallops and sprouts.

7. Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful pilaf made with quinoa, nuts, and dried fruits offers texture and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn lightly charred on the grill adds seasonal flair that pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like scallops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best results.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the scallops before cooking can lead to steaming instead of searing. Pat them dry with paper towels for a perfect golden crust.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many scallops in the skillet at once can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches to achieve that desired sear.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season both the scallops and Brussels sprouts properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and spices for maximum taste.
• Ignoring Timing: Overcooking scallops makes them tough and chewy. Sear each side for just 2-3 minutes for optimal tenderness.
• Underestimating Roasting Time: Not roasting Brussels sprouts long enough can leave them raw inside. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by checking after 20-25 minutes.
• Forgetting to Let It Rest: Cutting into scallops immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let them rest for a minute before serving for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover scallops and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• For longer storage, freeze the components separately.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Seared Scallops And Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until heated evenly; cover to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts.

How do I choose fresh scallops?

Look for plump, moist scallops with a slightly sweet scent. Avoid any that smell fishy or have a dry appearance.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, frozen scallops are fine! Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What should I serve with seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for balance.

How can I customize the lemon butter sauce?

Feel free to add herbs like parsley or dill, or include a dash of mustard for an extra kick in your lemon butter sauce!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead. Just store them properly and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts make a stunning dish that balances flavors beautifully. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it with different sauces or sides! Try it out for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed!