Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sear the Scallops: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops to the pan and sear them for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Tuscan Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the butter melt, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer on low for about 5 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
5. Add Spinach and Combine: Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce, which should only take about 1–2 minutes. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
6. Assemble the Dish: Gently stir the seared jumbo scallops into the pasta and sauce mixture. Arrange the scallops on top or gently toss them with the pasta. Ensure that the scallops are distributed evenly throughout.
7. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy Tuscan spaghetti with scallops to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast. For an extra sprinkle of flavor, you can also top with additional Parmesan cheese.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and creamy. The combination of tender scallops, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to wow your taste buds.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops

• Pat the Scallops Dry: It’s important to pat the scallops dry before searing them to get that perfect golden crust. Moisture on the surface can cause them to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking them can make them tough and rubbery. A quick sear on each side is all you need for a tender, juicy result.
• Use Fresh Pasta: If possible, use fresh pasta for an even more luxurious texture. Fresh pasta cooks faster and adds an extra layer of tenderness to the dish.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to get creative with the sauce. You can add a splash of white wine for extra depth or toss in some fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to enhance the Tuscan flavor.
• Make It Ahead: While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the creamy Tuscan sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before tossing with freshly cooked pasta and scallops for a quick and easy meal.

Serving Ideas

This Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it:

• Pair with a Light Salad: Serve a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Add Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Wine Pairing: For a perfect wine pairing, serve this dish with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complement the creaminess of the sauce and the sweetness of the scallops.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

The Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops is a dish that combines the best of both worlds—rich, creamy pasta and succulent seafood. The smooth, velvety sauce, tender scallops, and perfectly cooked pasta make every bite an indulgent experience. Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to impress at a dinner party. With its bold flavors and elegant presentation, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals for special occasions or simply when you’re craving something extraordinary.

So, gather your ingredients, get your skillet sizzling, and prepare to delight in this luxurious seafood pasta dish that will transport you to the heart of Tuscany. Enjoy!