Description
These Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce are an elegant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or a gourmet dinner. The perfectly seared scallops are paired with a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy Cajun sauce that takes this dish to the next level.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb sea scallops (about 12–16 scallops)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Scallops:
Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. -
Sear the Scallops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops to the pan, making sure they are not crowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside. -
Make the Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Serve:
Return the seared scallops to the skillet and spoon the Cajun cream sauce over them. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a variation, you can serve this dish over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the scallops—they should be golden on the outside and slightly translucent in the center.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 scallops with sauce
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 85mg