Description
Tender golden sea scallops seared in lemon garlic butter and served over creamy Parmesan orzo with fresh spinach for an elegant restaurant-quality dinner that’s easy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Scallops
1½ lbs (680 g) large sea scallops, patted dry
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Orzo
12 oz (340 g) orzo pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup baby spinach
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Add the cooked orzo and baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the orzo is coated in the creamy sauce. Keep warm.
5. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Heat the olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Reduce the heat to low. Add the butter and minced garlic, then spoon the melted garlic butter over the scallops for about 30 seconds.
8. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, then sprinkle with fresh parsley.
9. Serve the garlic butter scallops over the creamy Parmesan orzo and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Pat the scallops completely dry to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest cream sauce.
Avoid overcooking the scallops—they only need 2–3 minutes per side.
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
Serve immediately while the orzo is creamy and the scallops are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner / Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American