Seared scallop bowls are a delightful culinary experience that brings the ocean’s flavors right to your table. As someone who has always been captivated by the delicate taste and buttery texture of scallops, I find that this dish perfectly showcases their natural sweetness. Originating from coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant, seared scallop bowls have become a beloved choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.
What I adore about seared scallop bowls is their versatility; they can be paired with a variety of grains, vegetables, and sauces, making them a convenient option for any meal. The satisfying crunch of perfectly seared scallops, combined with the vibrant colors of fresh ingredients, creates a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It’s no wonder that people love this dish—it’s not only delicious but also a healthy choice that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Join me as we dive into the world of seared scallop bowls and discover how to create this exquisite dish in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
Preparing the Quinoa
First things first, let’s get the quinoa cooking. It’s a great base for our seared scallop bowls and adds a lovely nutty flavor.
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water) over medium-high heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
Preparing the Vegetables
While the quinoa is cooking, we can prepare the fresh veggies that will add color and flavor to our bowls.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Drizzle the juice of 1 lime over the mixture, and sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined. Set this vibrant mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
Searing the Scallops
Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the scallops! Searing them perfectly will give us that beautiful golden crust.
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. If they’re wet, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in batches.
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust.
- Using tongs, gently flip the scallops and sear for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until they are opaque and cooked through. They should feel firm to the touch.
- Once done, transfer the scallops to a plate and cover them loosely with foil to keep warm.
Assembling the Bowls
Now that everything is cooked and ready, it’s time to assemble our delicious seared scallop bowls!
- Start by placing a generous scoop of the fluffy quinoa at the bottom of each bowl.
- Next, add a portion of the vegetable mixture on top of the quinoa. Make sure to include a good mix of tomatoes, avocado, corn, and onion.
- Carefully place 3-4 seared scallops on top of the vegetable mixture in each bowl.
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle a little more lime juice over the top and sprinkle with additional cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately while everything
Conclusion:
In summary, these Seared Scallop Bowls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience at home. The combination of perfectly seared scallops, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or a casual gathering with friends, these bowls are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your scallop bowls with a side of fluffy quinoa or a light citrus salad to complement the richness of the scallops. You can also experiment with variations by adding different seasonal vegetables or swapping out the dressing for a creamy avocado sauce for a twist on the classic recipe. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how your Seared Scallop Bowls turn out! Happy cooking! Print
Seared Scallop Bowls: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Enjoy a delightful and healthy meal with these seared scallop bowls, featuring perfectly cooked quinoa and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables. This dish is visually appealing and packed with flavor and nutrition!
Ingredients
- Scallops
- Quinoa
- Vegetables (your choice)
- Chili powder
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Warm and enjoy your delicious seared scallop bowls!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños to the vegetable mixture.
- Make sure to use dry scallops for the best sear; avoid wet or brined scallops if possible.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd or meal prep for the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
