Shrimp and Scallop Recipe
Looking for an amazing shrimp and scallop recipe that will wow your family and friends? You’re in the right place! This easy-to-follow seafood recipe combines tender shrimp and buttery scallops in one delicious dish.
Whether you’re new to cooking fish or already love making seafood at home, this shrimp and scallop recipe will become your go-to favorite.
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Why This Shrimp and Scallop Recipe Works Every Time
This shrimp and scallop recipe is a real winner for several reasons. First, the quick cooking method keeps both the shrimp and scallops tender and juicy. You won’t end up with rubbery seafood when you follow these simple steps.
The ingredient list is short and sweet, but every item packs a flavor punch. You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find ingredients to make this restaurant-quality dish at home. Most items are probably already in your kitchen right now.
This recipe works great for beginners because it’s hard to mess up. The cooking times are short, and the visual cues are easy to spot. Even experienced cooks will love how this shrimp and scallop recipe delivers amazing results without any fuss.
Best of all, you’ll get restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Your guests will think you ordered takeout from an expensive seafood restaurant!
Essential Ingredients for Your Shrimp and Scallop Recipe
Here’s everything you need for this amazing shrimp and scallop recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp (peeled) | 1 pound | 16-20 count size works best |
| Sea scallops | 1 pound | Remove side muscle |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Unsalted preferred |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin |
| Garlic cloves | 4 cloves | Minced fresh |
| Fresh lemon | 1 lemon | For juice and zest |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Sea salt or kosher |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
Fresh Seafood Selection Tips
Choosing the right seafood makes all the difference in your shrimp and scallop recipe. For shrimp, look for ones that smell like the ocean, not fishy. The shells should be firm and clear, not slimy or black around the edges.
When picking scallops, choose ones that are cream-colored or slightly pink. Avoid any that look bright white, as they might have been treated with chemicals. Fresh scallops should smell sweet, not fishy.
Store your seafood in the coldest part of your fridge and use it within two days. Keep shrimp and scallops on ice if you won’t cook them right away.
Supporting Ingredients
Your shrimp and scallop recipe needs just a few key supporting players. Fresh garlic is a must-have – it adds amazing flavor without overpowering the delicate seafood. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives work beautifully too.
For cooking, use a mix of butter and olive oil. The butter gives rich flavor, while the oil helps prevent burning. You’ll also need salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Optional flavor boosters include white wine, red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of cream for richness. These extras can take your shrimp and scallop recipe to the next level.
Step-by-Step Shrimp and Scallop Recipe Instructions
Preparation Phase
Start by cleaning your shrimp. Remove the shells and tails, then rinse under cold water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels – this step is super important for good searing.
For scallops, remove the side muscle if it’s still attached. This tough little piece doesn’t taste good, so just pull it off with your fingers. Pat the scallops dry just like the shrimp.
Set up your workspace with all ingredients ready to go. This shrimp and scallop recipe cooks fast, so you won’t have time to hunt for ingredients once you start.
Cooking Process
Heat your pan over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Add a little oil, then carefully place the scallops in first. Don’t move them around – let them sit for 2-3 minutes to get a golden crust.
Flip the scallops when they release easily from the pan. Cook another 2 minutes, then remove them to a plate.
Add the shrimp to the same pan. They’ll cook in about 2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
Finishing Touches
Add butter and garlic to the pan for the last minute of cooking. The garlic should smell amazing but not turn brown.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and add your herbs. Give it all a gentle toss to combine.
For plating, arrange the shrimp and scallops on warm plates. Drizzle any pan juices over the top and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Scallop Recipe Results
Temperature control is everything in this shrimp and scallop recipe. Your pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles right away. Too low, and your seafood will steam instead of sear.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Crowded seafood won’t get that beautiful golden color you want.
Timing is key – have everything ready before you start cooking. This dish comes together in under 10 minutes, so there’s no time to prep ingredients once you begin.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan if you have one. It holds heat better and gives more even cooking than thin pans.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Side Dish Options
This shrimp and scallop recipe pairs beautifully with many sides. Rice pilaf or wild rice soaks up the delicious pan juices perfectly. For something lighter, try quinoa or couscous.
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini complement the seafood without competing with it. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette also works great.
If you want to serve this shrimp and scallop recipe over pasta, choose something delicate like angel hair or linguine.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
White wine is the classic choice with this seafood recipe. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay all work wonderfully.
For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or a light white grape juice. Iced tea with herbs also complements the flavors nicely.
Nutritional Benefits of This Shrimp and Scallop Recipe
This shrimp and scallop recipe isn’t just delicious – it’s also really good for you! Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 285 | 14% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Total Fat | 16g | 21% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Fiber | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 890mg | 39% |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.1mcg | 88% |
| Selenium | 32mcg | 58% |
Both shrimp and scallops are excellent sources of lean protein. A serving gives you about 25 grams of protein with very few calories.
Seafood provides important vitamins like B12, which helps your brain work well. You’ll also get selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids that are great for heart health.
This dish is naturally low in carbs and can fit into many healthy eating plans. The total calories per serving are usually under 300, making it perfect for lighter meals.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Flavor Profile Adaptations
Want to give your shrimp and scallop recipe a Mediterranean twist? Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil. A splash of white wine doesn’t hurt either.
For Asian-inspired flavors, try adding ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Finish with green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Love spicy food? Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or fresh jalapeños to heat things up.
Dietary Accommodations
This shrimp and scallop recipe is naturally keto-friendly and low-carb. Just skip any starchy sides and load up on vegetables instead.
For gluten-free diets, this recipe works perfectly as written. Just double-check that any seasonings you use don’t contain gluten.
Need a dairy-free version? Use olive oil instead of butter, or try coconut oil for a slightly different flavor.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store leftover shrimp and scallops in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep them in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
When reheating, use low heat and don’t overcook. A quick warm-up in a pan with a little butter works best. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make seafood rubbery.
This shrimp and scallop recipe doesn’t freeze well, so plan to eat it within a couple of days of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp and Scallop Recipe
Cooking Time and Temperature Questions
The most common question is how long to cook each piece. Shrimp need about 2 minutes per side, while scallops need 2-3 minutes per side. Both should be cooked over medium-high heat.
Ingredient Substitution Queries
Can you use frozen seafood? Yes, but thaw it completely and pat very dry before cooking. Fresh is better, but frozen works in a pinch.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your seafood turns out rubbery, you probably overcooked it. Seafood cooks fast, so watch it carefully and remove it from heat as soon as it’s done.
Related Seafood Recipes to Try Next
Once you master this shrimp and scallop recipe, try making garlic butter salmon or lemon herb cod. Both use similar cooking techniques and flavors.
For appetizers, consider shrimp cocktail or bacon-wrapped scallops. These make great starters before your main seafood dish.
Ready to become a seafood cooking pro? Start with this amazing shrimp and scallop recipe tonight! Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a new favorite dish to impress family and friends. Don’t wait – grab your ingredients and get cooking!