Name: Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 3 tbsp butter; 1 lb scallops; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 2 tbsp garlic, diced; 1/4 cup Thai basil, diced; 1 tsp chili paste; 1/2 lemon, sliced into half-wedges

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Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili

Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili is a delightful dish that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with the aromatic zing of Thai basil and the subtle heat of chili paste. This culinary masterpiece not only tantalizes your taste buds but also paints a perfect picture of simplicity and elegance. The golden sear on the scallops, paired with the fragrant herbs, creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exhilarating. Each bite transports you to a coastal kitchen where fresh ingredients come together to create something truly special. This recipe is worth making for any occasion, be it an intimate dinner or a casual gathering with friends, bringing a touch of gourmet flair to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the standout features of this Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels both special and satisfying. It’s family-friendly and perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet impressive. The minimal preparation time means you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that combines the richness of butter, the nutty crunch of scallops, and the fresh essence of basil? This recipe is a celebration of flavors that makes any meal feel like a special occasion.

Ingredients for Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili

To make this delicious Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili, gather the following ingredients:

3 tbsp butter, rich and creamy
1 lb scallops, defrosted and patted dry, tender and juicy
1 tsp salt, to enhance flavors
1 tsp pepper, freshly cracked for a hint of spice
2 tbsp garlic, diced for aromatic goodness
1/4 cup Thai basil, diced for a fragrant herbal kick
1 tsp chili paste, to add desired heat
1/2 lemon, sliced into half-wedges for zesty brightness

Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting this delicious seafood dish, ensuring a balance of flavors that rounds out the deliciousness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here are the step-by-step directions:

Prep Your Pan: Start by heating 3 tablespoons of butter in a pan over high heat until it melts and becomes lightly foaming. This is the base that will impart rich flavor to your scallops.
Season the Scallops: While the butter is heating, pat the 1 lb of scallops dry with a paper towel. Generously season both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked pepper. This will add depth to the flavor.
Sear the Scallops: Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the hot pan, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even crisping. Sear them for about 4 minutes on one side until they develop a beautiful golden crust.
Flip the Scallops: Once they have that perfect golden hue, gently flip the scallops using tongs and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden crust on both sides.
Incorporate Flavor: Add the diced garlic and Thai basil to the pan, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
Finish with Lemon and Chili: Incorporate the lemon slices and 1 teaspoon of chili paste into the pan, stirring to combine all the flavors. Cook until the scallops feel springy to the touch and are opaque and browned—about a few more minutes.
Serve Immediately: Serve the scallops topped with the pan sauce, ensuring to include the aromatic garlic and basil.

This simple yet sophisticated process will lead you to a delicious dish that’s sure to impress!

Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, here are some chef’s tips and tricks for preparing scallops:

Use Dry Scallops: Always opt for dry scallops instead of wet ones. They absorb less moisture, which helps achieve that perfect sear.
High Heat is Key: Cook at a high heat to create a nice crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This ensures that each scallop gets the attention it deserves and crisps up nicely instead of steaming.
Chili Paste Variations: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili paste based on your spice preference. Start small and add more as you go!
Garnish Creatively: Consider garnishing with extra Thai basil leaves or finely chopped chili for an elegant touch.

With these tips, you’ll be a scallop-searing pro in no time!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili can be a versatile dish when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ideas for presentation and pairings:

Serve with Jasmine Rice: The light and fluffy texture of jasmine rice is a perfect match. It absorbs the sauce beautifully and complements the dish’s flavors.
Add Some Greens: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast and brings crunch to the meal.
Try with Noodles: Serving the scallops over a bed of rice noodles will provide a different texture and flavor complement.
Garnishes: Elevate your presentation with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of soy sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.

Each pairing enhances the overall dining experience, making for a refined yet approachable meal.

Nutritional Information

When indulging in Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili, it’s good to be mindful of the nutritional benefits. A serving of this dish (approximately 3 oz of scallops) contains roughly:

Calories: 220
Protein: 22g
Fat: 14g (primarily from the butter)
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g

This dish is protein-packed and low in carbs, making it a delightful yet indulgent option. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal!

Storing Tips & Variations for Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili

If you find yourself with leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, here are some storing tips and variations:

Freezing: Cooked scallops can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.
Healthier Swaps: For a lighter version, consider using olive oil instead of butter. You could also swap scallops for shrimp or chicken for different flavor profiles.
Creative Variations: Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a stir-fry style dish. Experiment with herbs, substituting the Thai basil with cilantro for a different twist.

Conclusion for Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili

There’s no denying the allure of Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili. This dish is not only quick and easy to whip up but also showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients working harmoniously together. With its stunning presentation and unbeatable flavor, you’re bound to impress any guests or just enjoy a delightful meal at home. Don’t wait any longer; gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

2. Is chili paste necessary?
While it adds a kick, you can skip it or substitute with a milder sauce if preferred.

3. How long do scallops take to cook?
Typically, they take about 6-8 minutes total, depending on their size.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
For best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to prepare scallops just before serving, though you can pre-chop ingredients.

5. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap scallops with marinated tofu or mushrooms and use vegan butter for a flavorful alternative.

Scallops with Thai Basil and Chili

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Seafood

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Description

A delightful dish combining the sweetness of scallops with aromatic Thai basil and chili paste, creating a gourmet experience in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

Prep Your Pan: Heat butter in a pan over high heat until lightly foaming.
Season the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
Sear the Scallops: Place the seasoned scallops in the hot pan, sear for about 4 minutes until golden.
Flip the Scallops: Gently flip scallops and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden.
Incorporate Flavor: Add diced garlic and Thai basil, stir quickly to prevent burning for about 2-3 minutes.
Finish with Lemon and Chili: Add lemon slices and chili paste, stir until scallops are opaque and browned.
Serve Immediately: Plate the scallops topped with pan sauce and herbs.