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Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: Southern

Description

Golden seared scallops served in a rich and spicy Cajun cream sauce with Parmesan and a touch of lemon for an elegant, flavorful dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb large sea scallops, packed dry
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  4. Add Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine, then pour in the heavy cream.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Simmer another minute, stirring continuously.
  7. Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Let heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure scallops are dry for a perfect sear.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the level of heat.
  • Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to enjoy the sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 19 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg