Kitchies! There’s something truly magical about seafood pasta, isn’t there? Picture this: tender, golden-seared scallops nestled on a bed of al dente linguine, coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This Garlic Butter Scallops with Linguine recipe is the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, ideal for a romantic dinner or a weeknight treat that feels like fine dining.
The secret lies in the scallops’ sear. When they hit that hot pan, they develop a beautiful golden crust while staying soft and tender inside. Add to that the luscious garlic butter sauce infused with a touch of white wine, and you’ve got yourself a meal that tastes like a little slice of heaven. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes!
Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or someone looking to elevate their pasta game, this dish delivers bold flavors, silky textures, and a restaurant-quality experience—all from the comfort of your kitchen.
Recipe Highlight
Imagine tender, caramelized scallops paired with buttery linguine that’s lightly kissed with garlic and wine. This dish is indulgent yet approachable, making it the ultimate combination of special and simple. Serve it with a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ll feel transported to a seaside Italian villa.
What makes this dish truly shine is the balance of flavors—the briny sweetness of the scallops, the richness of the butter, the brightness from the lemon juice, and the herbaceous finish from fresh parsley. It’s a symphony of tastes that’s impossible to resist.
A Family Story: A Romantic Night In
This recipe holds a special place in our household. My husband and I first made it together on a rainy Saturday night when going out wasn’t an option. We were craving something luxurious but didn’t want the hassle of a complex recipe. The aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan made the kitchen feel warm and cozy, and the moment we took our first bite, we knew we had created something extraordinary.
Now, it’s our go-to for date nights at home. We light some candles, pour a glass of wine, and let this dish set the tone for a perfect evening. The kids love the leftovers the next day too—win-win!
Why This Garlic Butter Scallops with Linguine?
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight meal.
- Packed with Flavor: A rich garlic butter sauce with bright citrus and savory scallops.
Cuisine
Italian-Inspired
Tips for Perfect Scallops
- Pat Them Dry: This ensures a golden crust when searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook scallops in batches if necessary.
- Fresh Is Best: Use fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture.
Substitutions and Variations
- No Wine? Use chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with basil or chives.
- Lighter Option: Replace butter with olive oil for a healthier twist.
Make It Healthier
- Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta.
- Reduce the butter by half and add more lemon juice for flavor.
- Serve with a side of steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Categories
Dinner, Seafood, Pasta, Quick Meals
Tags
#Scallops #GarlicButter #SeafoodPasta #Linguine #EasyDinner
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What’s the best pasta substitute?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta work well.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based butter alternative and olive oil.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus are great additions.
“And there you have it—restaurant-worthy Garlic Butter Scallops with Linguine made right in your own kitchen. Pair it with a crisp white wine and a simple side salad for a meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to check out our other seafood recipes for more delicious ideas!”
PrintGarlic Butter Scallops with Linguine
Description
This Garlic Butter Scallops with Linguine recipe is the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, ideal for a romantic dinner or a weeknight treat that feels like fine dining.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. Sear the Scallops
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
- Add scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and olive oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes, if using.
4. Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked linguine in the garlic butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Top with seared scallops and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.