# Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops Dinner Party
Give your dinner party a twist with the exquisite Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops. Combining the tanginess of lemon, the warm flavor of garlic, and delectably seared scallops, this pasta dish is sure to make your dinner party a memorable one.
🔹 **Servings**: 4
🔹 **Preparation Time**: 15 minutes
🔹 **Cooking Time**: 20 minutes
🔹 **Total Time**: 35 minutes
### Why Cook this Recipe
This Scallops Pasta dish is a perfect blend of gourmet and comfort food. The simplicity and convenience of pasta combined with sophisticated flavors make this dish a truly versatile choice for a dinner party where you want to impress your guests but also provide a warm, familiar feeling of a home-cooked meal.
### How to Make Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops
### Ingredients
– 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
– 1 lb fresh sea scallops
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
### Directions
1. Pat the scallops dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook pasta as per the instructions on the packet till it is al dente.
3. Heat oil in a skillet and sear scallops till they are golden brown (2-3 minutes each side). Remove and keep aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and red pepper, if using.
5. Pour in the wine and lemon juice, reduce to half.
6. Lower the flame and add butter, lemon zest, and parsley.
7. Mix in the cooked pasta till it is well coated in the sauce.
8. Finally, add the cooked scallops.
### How to Serve Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops
Serve the Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops on a beautiful platter or individual plates. Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the splendid dish with a glass of your favorite white wine and some freshly toasted bread.
### How to Store Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops
If you have any leftovers, cool the pasta and transfer it in an airtight box. Store this in refrigerator upto 2 days. The dish reheats well in a microwave but remember to sprinkle little water to avoid it from drying up.
### Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops
– Pat the scallops dry before you start to sear them. This will give you a beautiful, crispy crust.
– Do not overcook the scallops. They should have a slightly crispy exterior and tender interior.
– Remember to cook the pasta ‘al dente’ as it will further get cooked in the pan with the sauce.
– Toss the pasta to ensure every strand gets coated with the wonderful lemon-garlic sauce.
### Variations
If you want a bit of variation, you can add some veggies—spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. They add color and a boost of nutrition to the dish.
### FAQs
1. What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Spaghetti is a good choice for this recipe because it balances well with the scallops and holds the sauce nicely.
2. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
3. Can I substitute white wine in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Add a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the broth for acidity.
Treating your guests to this Lemon Garlic Pasta with Scallops will truly make for a momentous dinner party. Enjoy the night with this delightful dish!