Scallops and Shrimp with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
A delightful dish combining shrimp and scallops in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, perfect for impressing family or guests.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 475kcal
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined Brings subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 lb sea scallops Adds a rich flavor and meaty texture.
Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh spinach Adds color and freshness.
- 1/2 unit shallot, finely diced Enhances overall taste.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Brings warmth and depth.
Sauce Base
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides a luxurious texture.
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Adds tangy richness.
- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese Elevates the cream sauce.
- 1 tbsp butter For sautéing and richness.
- to taste red crushed pepper Optional for heat.
- to taste salt and black pepper Essential for seasoning.
Cooking Essentials
- as needed oil for cooking Necessary for browning seafood.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the shrimp and scallops with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sear the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Sauté
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
- Sauté the finely diced shallots for about 1 minute until they soften.
- Incorporate the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts.
Sauce Creation
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened slightly.
Final Cooking
- Reintroduce the shrimp, cover, and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked.
- Return the scallops to the pan and let them warm up for about 10-20 seconds.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
Fresh ingredients enhance flavor. Consider adding citrus for freshness or vegetables like asparagus for variation. You can use half-and-half or non-dairy alternatives to lighten the dish.