Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops Dinner Party

Impress your guests with this savory Lemon Garlic Pasta dish topped with plump and juicy scallops. It’s the perfect combination of flavors for a special dinner party!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb scallops
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

• Cook pasta according to package instructions.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic.
• Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Pour lemon juice over the scallops and stir in cooked pasta.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and parsley over the pasta and scallops.
• Serve hot and enjoy the compliments from your guests!

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use shrimp instead of scallops?

A: Yes, you can easily substitute shrimp for scallops in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

• Q: How do I know when scallops are cooked through?

A: Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook them.

• Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Of course! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

A: While fresh parsley is preferred for its flavor, you can use dried parsley as a substitute if that’s what you have on hand.

Helpful tips:

• For a burst of color, consider adding cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the pasta.
• Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese – it adds a rich umami flavor to the dish.
• If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta.

Expert Secrets:

• Pat the scallops dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
• Use a combination of butter and olive oil for cooking the scallops for extra flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan after cooking the scallops for a flavorful sauce.
• Garnish with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt for a luxurious touch.