When the sun sets and time seems to slow down, I crave something that brings a touch of elegance to the evening—like my Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta. Just picture the fragrant dance of garlic and lemon intertwining, creating a melody of flavors that instantly transports you to a cozy seaside bistro. This delightful dish strikes the perfect balance between gourmet and comforting, making it ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.
What I love most about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare without compromising on taste. In just 30 minutes, you can go from an ordinary evening to a special culinary experience. The tender scallops perfectly seared with a golden crust, paired with farfalle pasta tossed in a rich butter sauce, create a heartwarming meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to make something truly memorable—no bustling restaurant reservations required!
Why Love Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, this dish transforms your kitchen into a gourmet haven, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Savory Depth: The fresh basil and zesty lemon elevate tender scallops with irresistible flavor that dazzles the palate.
Stunning Presentation: The golden scallops atop vibrant farfalle make for a beautiful plate that impresses family and guests alike!
Versatile Option: Pair it with wine for romantic dinners or serve it at gatherings—everyone will adore it!
Satisfying Comfort: Enjoy a comforting meal that feels upscale yet homey, redefining your weeknight dinners.
Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Farfalle (bow-tie) pasta – This 16-ounce box serves as the delightful base for your dish that pairs perfectly with scallops.
For the Scallops
- Scallops – Fresh, rinsed, and drained scallops are the star of this Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta, offering a delicate taste and texture.
- Olive oil – Divided, this ¾ cup adds a lovely richness and helps achieve that golden sear on the scallops.
- Lemon juice – The ¼ cup of lemon juice brightens the dish, adding a refreshing acidity that complements the scallops beautifully.
- Dried garlic flakes – 1 ½ teaspoons of garlic flakes lend depth and aromatic flavor to your scallops.
- Salt – With 1 teaspoon divided, salt enhances the natural flavors of your seafood and pasta.
- Ground black pepper – Adding ½ teaspoon of pepper introduces a warm, slightly spicy note to your dish.
- Dried basil – Two tablespoons elevate the essence of this recipe, infusing every bite with savory herbal notes.
For the Butter Sauce
- Whipped butter – With 1 tablespoon melted initially and ½ cup for the sauce, whipped butter creates a rich coating for your pasta and scallops and gives it a creamy finish.
How to Make Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta
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Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender yet firm to the bite.
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Prepare the Scallops: While your pasta is cooking, place the rinsed and drained scallops into a large bowl, ready for seasoning.
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Season the Scallops: In a separate bowl, mix together ¼ cup of olive oil, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic flakes, ½ teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the scallops, stirring to coat them completely. Transfer them to a large baking dish, arranging in a single layer, and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of dried basil on top.
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Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of whipped butter over medium-high heat. Place half of the scallops, basil-side down, into the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until they’re dark golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining scallops.
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Make the Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the remaining ½ cup of whipped butter, ½ cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of garlic flakes, and ½ teaspoon of salt over medium heat until melted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked farfalle and return it to the pot. Pour the hot butter sauce over the pasta and toss gently to combine. Plate the pasta and top each serving with the beautifully seared scallops.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can marinate the scallops up to 24 hours in advance by combining the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper, then coating the scallops and refrigerating them in a single layer. The pasta can be cooked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, just remember to toss it lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and cook the marinated scallops as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal fuss, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the scallops maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your dish, separate the scallops and pasta, storing them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the pasta and scallops separately in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness—enjoy this delightful flavor again!
Sauce Storage: If you have extra butter sauce, store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
Tips for the Best Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta
Scallop Selection: Choose fresh, dry scallops whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. Avoid those treated with preservatives as they’ll release excess moisture.
Searing Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the scallops to achieve that beautiful golden crust. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than searing, so work in batches if necessary.
Butter Basting: For an extra layer of flavor, consider basting the scallops with the hot butter sauce while they’re cooking. This technique helps infuse them with richness.
Pasta Cooking: Undercook the farfalle by 1-2 minutes since it will continue to cook when combined with the hot butter sauce. This ensures perfect pasta that’s not mushy.
Garnishing Delight: A sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh basil just before serving not only looks beautiful but also brightens the dish’s flavor profile! Enjoy your Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta to the fullest!
What to Serve with Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta?
Elevate your dinner experience with these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your scallops and pasta.
- Garlic Bread: A buttery, crispy loaf awaits to soak up every drop of your rich butter sauce, adding a comforting crunch.
- Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus spears bring a fresh crunch and vibrant color, perfectly balancing the rich scallops and sauce.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers a creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, making it a refreshing contrast to the tender scallops.
- Lemon Zest: A simple sprinkle before serving brightens every bite, enhancing the citrus notes that complement the dish beautifully.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis enhances the flavors of your dish while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
- Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh herbs provides a light, protein-packed option that harmoniously complements your scallops. It’s a delightful addition that expands the meal without overpowering it.
Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish—each variation brings a unique twist that enhances flavor and enjoyment.
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap farfalle for gluten-free pasta such as quinoa or brown rice pasta, ensuring everyone can indulge.
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Seafood Medley: Add shrimp or lobster for a luxurious touch; just adjust cooking times for perfectly tender additions.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the butter sauce for a vibrant, herbal flavor boost.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in heavy cream or a splash of white wine to the butter sauce for an indulgent, velvety finish.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute scallops with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free alternative that’s just as satisfying.
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Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a hint of heat that will tantalize the taste buds.
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Lemon Zest Boost: Garnish with extra lemon zest and fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors and enhance the fresh taste of the dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the butter sauce for a warm, smoky note that complements the sweetness of the scallops beautifully.
Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallops for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, look for fresh, dry scallops without any added preservatives, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Fresh scallops should have a sweet briny aroma and a firm texture. Avoid any that are slimy or have a strong fishy smell.
What is the best way to store leftovers from the Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta?
Very simply! Store any leftover Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the dish’s delightful flavors and textures. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid overcooking the scallops.
Can I freeze the scallops and pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze your Basil Pan-Seared Scallops over Pasta, it’s best to separate the components. Place the scallops and pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring all air is removed to avoid freezer burn. This way, they can last up to 2 months. To reheat, just thaw in the fridge overnight before warming them in a skillet over medium heat.
What should I do if my scallops are not browning nicely?
If your scallops aren’t achieving that beautiful golden crust, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding them. Overcrowding the pan can also lead to steaming instead of searing, so it’s best to cook them in batches. Additionally, make sure not to flip them too soon—a good sear takes 3 to 4 minutes on each side, allowing them to develop that gorgeous caramelization.
Are there any dietary considerations I should note?
Absolutely! If you have seafood allergies, this dish may not be suitable for you. For those with gluten sensitivity, you can replace the farfalle pasta with gluten-free pasta; just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed. And remember, scallops are a delicious treat for us, but it’s best to keep any plans for sharing them with our furry friends on hold, as they can be harmful to pets.
How long can I keep the butter sauce in the fridge?
The homemade butter sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you find you have leftovers, you can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat it gently on low heat to keep the buttery goodness intact!
Delicious Basil Pan-Seared Scallops Over Pasta in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook for about 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite.
- While pasta is cooking, place the rinsed and drained scallops into a large bowl.
- Mix together 1/4 cup of olive oil, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic flakes, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Pour over the scallops and coat completely. Arrange scallops in a single layer in a baking dish, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of dried basil.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of whipped butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place half of the scallops, basil-side down, and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until dark golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. Repeat with remaining scallops.
- In a small saucepan, heat remaining 1/2 cup of whipped butter, 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until melted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Drain cooked farfalle and return to pot. Pour hot butter sauce over pasta and toss gently to combine. Plate pasta and top each serving with seared scallops.