Description
These Creamy Tuscan Scallops are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a garlic-infused sun-dried tomato cream sauce with spinach and Parmesan. Elegant, rich, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the scallops:
- 1½ pounds large sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- For the creamy Tuscan sauce:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the scallops: Pat scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Remove the small side muscle if still attached. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the scallops: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops in a single layer. Sear for 2 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Return scallops to pan: Nestle the scallops into the sauce and warm for 1–2 minutes. Don’t overcook. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread.
Notes
- Use dry scallops for better searing results.
- Do not overcrowd the pan — work in batches if needed.
- Deglaze pan with broth if too dry before adding cream.
- For dairy-free, use coconut cream and omit cheese.
- Add shrimp or white fish for a seafood medley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Creamy Tuscan Scallops, Scallop Dinner Recipes, Garlic Cream Sauce, Scallops with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes, One Pan Scallop Recipes, Italian Seafood Recipes, Elegant Seafood Dinner