Description
Succulent Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce transport diners straight to New Orleans’ rich culinary landscape. Delicate sea scallops dance with bold Cajun spices, creating a luxurious seafood experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 g) large sea scallops (dry-packed)
Seasonings and Spices:
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Cooking Fats:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) unsalted butter
Instructions
- Ensure scallops are thoroughly dried using paper towels, allowing them to reach ambient temperature for optimal searing (15-20 minutes).
- Apply generous seasoning of salt and pepper across both surfaces of the scallops.
- Prepare cast iron skillet by heating olive oil and butter over medium-high temperature until shimmering.
- Carefully place scallops into hot skillet, creating a golden-brown crust for 2-3 minutes without moving them.
- Flip scallops and cook additional 1-2 minutes until edges turn opaque; transfer to a holding plate.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium and introduce fresh butter, quickly sautéing minced garlic until fragrant (approximately 30 seconds).
- Deglaze pan with wine or broth, using a wooden spatula to release caramelized flavor bits from bottom of skillet.
- Pour heavy cream into skillet, incorporating Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; allow sauce to gently simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Integrate Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice, stirring continuously until sauce reaches a slightly thickened consistency.
- Reintroduce seared scallops into warm sauce, coating them evenly and heating through for 1 minute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while sauce remains luxuriously warm.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are completely dry to achieve a golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
- Let scallops rest at room temperature for even cooking and a perfect caramelized exterior.
- Choose fresh, high-quality sea scallops with a sweet, mild ocean flavor for the best results.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning levels to control heat and suit different spice tolerances.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream.
- Use a cast iron skillet for superior heat distribution and beautiful caramelization.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat and prevent soggy scallops.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or dill for added brightness and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg