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Pan-Seared Scallops with Cauliflower Puree

  • Author: Christina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Description

Indulge in the delicate flavors of pan-seared scallops paired with a velvety cauliflower puree, creating a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb fresh scallops (about 12 large)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp chives or green onions, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. For the Cauliflower Puree: Bring salted water to a boil in a pot. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a blender.
  2. Add butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. For the Scallops: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
  4. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Carefully place them in the skillet without overcrowding.
  5. Sear scallops for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional minute until opaque.
  6. To Serve: On each plate, spread a generous dollop of cauliflower puree as a base. Arrange three scallops on top of the puree and garnish with chopped chives or green onions.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 scallops with puree (150g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or fresh herbs into the cauliflower puree. Substitute cauliflower with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different twist on this dish. Always dry your scallops thoroughly before searing for that perfect crust; moisture is the enemy!