Pistachio pesto seared scallops are a delicious and elegant dinner to prepare when you want to impress. The delicate scallops are cooked to perfection in just a few short minutes and perfected with the complex flavors of a crunchy pistachio pesto.
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Scallops are the king of seafood when it comes to taste and texture. The taste is uniquely theirs and tops lobster and shrimp in my opinion. Searing offers a caramelized, golden crust that gives way to the delicate, buttery meat of the scallop. An absolute treat for your next dinner party or when you want to elevate dinner.
Pistachio pesto offers a nutty twist on a traditional pesto. A perfect pair to top fish fillets or seared scallops. Coarsely chopped pistachios offer texture and are complimented by Parmesan cheese and garlic. Chopped parsley adds freshness, creating complex flavor that marries perfectly with delicate seared scallops. This easy recipe will become a staple for your recipe book.
Pistachio Pesto
Ingredients
- 3 TBSP Roasted Salted Pistachios
- ½ Ounce Fresh Parsley
- 1.5 TBSP Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 Clove Garlic
- 2 TBSP Olive Oil Extra Virgin
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by coarsely chop the pistachio, mince the parsley and garlic clove.
- Combine pistachios, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
- For best results allow flavors to mix for 15 minutes prior to serving.
Scallops are so easy to cook. It may feel intimidating if you are unfamiliar with cooking scallops, but follow these tips for perfectly prepared scallops! The biggest danger is overcooking scallops, destroying the soft and delicate texture and resulting in tough meat. The buttery taste of the scallop is also lost when overcooked. Searing may be one of the easiest method for preparing this seafood and can be easily mastered.
Searing Scallops
Scallops can be seared in any non-stick skillet but I highly recommend an iron skillet like this one! Ensure your skillet is large enough that your scallops are not touching while cooking. When searing your scallops, it is important to pat them dry prior to placing in the pan. Season with salt and allow to sit for a few minutes as well, this will ensure a nice golden brown crust.
How do you know when they are cooked to perfection? Look for a golden brown color, typically taking only one to two minutes per side to reach this. Scallops begin to break apart around the edges when the are done.
Seasoning your scallops. brings out the rich buttery flavor of the scallops and helps give that delicious seared finish. I prefer to use freshly ground salt and pepper to elevate the flavor.
Seared Scallops
Ingredients
- 16 Ounces Sea Scallopa
- Salt and Pepper
- 1 TBSP Olive Oil Extra Virgin
Instructions
- Place an iron skillet over medium high heat. Skillet should be large enough to avoid crowding the scallops while searing.
- Heat olive oil until hot, but not smoking.
- Pat scallops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Add scallops to hot skillet and heat on each side for about 1 to 2 minutes. Minimum internal temperature of 145°.
- Top with pistachio pesto or your favorite seafood sauce.
Love Scallops? Check out my Baked Lemon Garlic Scallops!
Top your seared scallops with pistachio pesto creates a unique and decadent dish. Pair with garlic smashed potatoes or a roasted veggie dish such as pesto asparagus or lemon roasted cauliflower!
This combination of seared scallops with pistachio pesto is certain to become a favorite. The secret is that the dish is incredibly easy to prepare but the presentation and flavor is 5 star chef quality. These scallops will certainly impress!
