Ingredients and Weight:
- Scallops: 500 grams (about 1 pound)
- Pesto: 3-4 tablespoons
- Cream: 200 ml (about 1 cup)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (crushed)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh basil leaves: a handful (for garnish)
- White wine: 50 ml (optional)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the scallops by rinsing them under cold water and removing any beards or debris.
- In a small bowl, combine the pesto and cream, mixing well. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the scallops to the pan and season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to turn opaque.
- Pour the pesto cream sauce over the scallops and stir to combine. Let it cook for another minute or two.
- If using white wine, add it at this point and let it reduce slightly.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and let it cook until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information:
(Please note that these are estimated values and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approx. 400 calories per serving (based on a 500-gram serving size)
- Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich pesto sauce combined with the sweet taste of scallops.
- The dish has a slight tang from the lemon juice, which balances the rich flavor of the sauce.
- A perfect dish for seafood lovers with a love for Italian flavors.
User Comments:
- "The scallops were cooked to perfection, and the pesto cream sauce was a great pairing."
- "The dish had a rich and creamy texture that was very satisfying."
- "I added a bit more lemon juice to enhance the flavor, but overall, it was a great dish."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to buy fresh scallops and check for any shells or debris before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of pesto and lemon juice according to your preference for flavor.
- Use a good-quality pesto for best results. If possible, consider making your own pesto for this dish.
