Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta

Ever since I first tried cooking sea scallops, I’ve been fascinated by their delicate texture and natural sweetness. There’s something magical about how they sear to a golden brown on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. I knew I wanted to pair them with something light and elegant, which led me to angel hair pasta. The combination is simple yet refined, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. This recipe quickly became one of my favorites because it transforms a handful of ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

You will love this recipe because it brings a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of the scallops complements the subtle, buttery sauce, while a hint of garlic adds just the right amount of aroma. The angel hair pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is rich without being heavy. This dish is versatile, allowing you to pair it with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple citrus garnish to elevate the presentation. It works equally well for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time or for impressing guests during a weekend gathering.

Another reason this recipe is appealing is affordability. While scallops might seem luxurious, this recipe uses just enough to create an impressive dish without excess. With basic pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and a few fresh herbs, you can make a flavorful meal without breaking the budget. It’s also flexible in portioning; you can easily adjust the number of scallops and pasta to suit a small family dinner or a larger gathering.

Ingredients for Sea Scallops with Angel Hair Pasta:

• 12 large sea scallops, patted dry

• 200g angel hair pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth (or low-sodium vegetable broth)

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 2 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 slices chicken ham, chopped

This combination of ingredients ensures a dish that is light, flavorful, and visually appealing, making every serving feel like a special occasion.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Preparing sea scallops with angel hair pasta is easier than it looks, and with a few careful steps, you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home. First, make sure your scallops are completely dry. Moisture prevents them from searing properly, so pat them gently with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Angel hair cooks very quickly, usually in 2–3 minutes, so keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water to add later for the sauce.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The butter adds richness while the olive oil prevents it from burning. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the scallops in a single layer, making sure they do not touch each other. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside to rest.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift any flavorful bits left from the scallops. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes if using, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it slightly reduces.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Then fold in the chopped chicken ham and crumbled turkey bacon, ensuring every strand of pasta is infused with flavor.

Finally, return the seared scallops to the skillet, placing them on top of the pasta without stirring too vigorously, so they stay intact. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the natural flavors of the scallops to shine alongside the delicate pasta.

Quick and Easy Tips

This recipe is not only elegant but also fast to prepare. From start to finish, it takes about 25 minutes. Using pre-cooked turkey bacon and chicken ham saves extra time, while angel hair pasta ensures the dish comes together quickly without sacrificing sophistication.

Customizable Options

You can adjust the seasonings or add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus to suit your taste. For a creamier version, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end. This dish also works well with alternative proteins like shrimp or firm white fish if scallops are unavailable.

Popular With Many People

This recipe appeals to a wide audience because it balances elegance with simplicity. Its light but flavorful sauce, paired with tender scallops, makes it suitable for both picky eaters and those seeking a refined dining experience at home. Whether served for a family dinner or a small gathering, it consistently receives compliments for its taste and presentation.

Print

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture will prevent proper searing.

2. How do I prevent the scallops from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is hot before adding the scallops and avoid overcrowding. Using a combination of olive oil and butter also helps prevent sticking while adding flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the pasta and sauce can be prepared in advance, scallops are best cooked just before serving to maintain their tender texture.

4. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or low-sodium beef broth works well as a substitute, keeping the sauce flavorful and balanced.

5. How do I avoid overcooking the pasta?
Cook angel hair pasta for the minimum time suggested on the package, then immediately drain and toss with the sauce. Angel hair cooks very quickly, so keeping an eye on it is essential.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Lightly sautéed vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can be added to enhance color, texture, and nutrition.