When it comes to creating an unforgettable gourmet meal, few dishes can compete with the luxurious flavor and elegance of Creamy Tuscan Scallops. This recipe brings restaurant-quality dining to your home kitchen with tender, pan-seared scallops enveloped in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce, infused with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or want to impress guests, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Scallops Recipe
Scallops are known for their delicate, slightly sweet flavor and buttery texture, and when paired with a creamy Tuscan-style sauce, they become a true indulgence. This dish is:
- Elegant yet easy: Made in one skillet in under 30 minutes.
- Packed with flavor: From the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the parmesan cream.
- Versatile: Perfectly paired with pasta, risotto, or crusty bread.
Let’s dive into how to make this sensational dish.
Ingredients
For this creamy Tuscan scallops recipe, you’ll need:
For the Scallops:
- 1 ½ pounds large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Scallops
Before cooking, make sure your scallops are dry. Pat them gently with paper towels. This helps ensure a golden sear.
Tip: If your scallops have a small side muscle attached, remove it — it can be tough when cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot (but not smoking), carefully place the scallops in the pan without overcrowding them.
Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly opaque in the center. Remove the scallops and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the scallops. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted — about 2 minutes.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Return the Scallops
Gently return the seared scallops to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the scallops and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just to warm them through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
What to Serve with Tuscan Scallops
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few gourmet-inspired suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve over linguine, fettuccine, or pappardelle to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Risotto: A parmesan risotto makes a luxurious base.
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash: For a low-carb option with a creamy texture.
- Crusty bread: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of the sauce.
- Steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus: To balance the richness of the dish.
Tips for Perfect Scallops
- Use fresh or high-quality frozen scallops. If using frozen, thaw completely and dry thoroughly before cooking.
- Get your pan hot. A hot pan gives scallops a golden crust without overcooking the inside.
- Don’t overcook. Scallops cook quickly! Overcooked scallops turn rubbery, so stick to 2-3 minutes per side max.
- Leave space in the pan. Overcrowding causes scallops to steam instead of sear.
Customizing Your Tuscan Scallops
Feel like getting creative? Here are a few ways to put your own twist on the recipe:
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a heartier sauce.
- Swap scallops for shrimp: The sauce works just as beautifully with jumbo shrimp or even chicken.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy alternative.
A Dish Worth Savoring
Creamy Tuscan Scallops are more than just a meal — they’re an experience. Rich, comforting, and full of bold flavors, this dish brings together the freshness of the sea and the warmth of Italian cooking in every bite. And the best part? It’s simple enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for special occasions.
So the next time you’re looking to treat yourself or loved ones to something special, whip up this Delicious Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe. Your taste buds (and dinner guests) will thank you!