Scallop Spaghetti in Creamy White Wine Butter

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Difficulty: Moderate
Cuisine: Italian-inspired seafood
Category: Pasta / Main Dish

 Ingredients

 For the Seared Scallops:

• 12 large sea scallops, patted dry

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Make sure scallops are completely dry for the best sear!

 For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 8 oz spaghetti (or linguine)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• ½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp capers, drained

• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional but brightens the dish)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Juice of ½ lemon (for finishing)

 Instructions

 Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.

3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

 Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

3. Sear scallops for about 2 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms and they release easily. Do not overcrowd the pan.

4. Transfer scallops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Do not overcook scallops! They should be translucent in the center.

 Step 3: Make the Creamy White Wine Garlic Sauce

1. In the same pan (lower heat to medium), add 2 tbsp butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

2. Add white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly.

3. Stir in the heavy cream, capers, and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 5–6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) and mix until melted and smooth.

 Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat.

2. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning. Finish with fresh lemon juice.

 Step 5: Plate and Serve

1. Twirl creamy spaghetti onto plates or shallow bowls.

2. Top with seared scallops.

3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra capers or cheese if desired.

4. Serve immediately with a glass of white wine or a lemon wedge on the side.

 Storage & Reheating

 Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving – 1/3 of recipe)

Values vary based on cream, pasta, and cheese used.