shrimp and scallop recipes​

Shrimp and scallops make a perfect pair in seafood dishes—they’re tender, sweet, and cook quickly. This recipe combines them in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon for a bright finish. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔ Quick and easy (ready in 25 minutes)
✔ Rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor
✔ Works with fresh or frozen seafood

3 Reasons You’ll Love These shrimp and scallop recipes​

• High in Protein: Shrimp and scallops are lean, protein-packed seafood options.
• Quick Cooking: Both cook in just a few minutes, making this ideal for busy nights.
• Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Impressive Yet Simple: The buttery garlic-lemon sauce elevates the dish without complicated steps.

scallops and shrimp recipes: Essential Ingredients List

(Serves 4)

For the Shrimp & Scallops

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled & deveined)
• 1 lb sea scallops (side muscle removed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp butter (divided)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup dry white wine (or seafood stock)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup spinach or sun-dried tomatoes
• 8 oz cooked pasta (linguine or fettuccine)

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Perfect scallops and shrimp

Step 1: Prep the Seafood

• Pat shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels (this ensures a good sear).
• Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Scallops

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
3. Sear 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
2. Add shrimp and cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in white wine, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer 2 minutes.
3. Stir in parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Combine & Serve

• Return shrimp and scallops to the pan, tossing gently in the sauce.
• Add optional cherry tomatoes or spinach, cooking just until wilted.
• Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.

Expert Tricks for the Best Shrimp and Scallop Recipe

Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp & Scallops

• Dry the Seafood Well – Excess moisture prevents a good sear. Pat shrimp and scallops thoroughly with paper towels before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if needed. Crowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of browning.
• Use High Heat for Scallops – A hot skillet ensures a golden crust while keeping the center tender.
• Don’t Overcook – Shrimp turn pink and firm in 2-3 minutes; scallops need just 2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Deglaze for Extra Flavor – After searing, scrape up the browned bits with wine or broth—this adds depth to the sauce.

Easy Variations

• Creamy Garlic Sauce – Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer dish.
• Spicy Kick – Add ½ tsp smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Mediterranean Twist – Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• Lighter Version – Replace butter with extra olive oil and add a splash of vegetable broth.
• Pasta-Free Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.

Ingredient Swaps

• No White Wine? Use chicken or seafood stock with a squeeze of lemon.
• Frozen Seafood? Thaw overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.
• Different Herbs – Swap parsley for basil, chives, or dill.

Why These Work: Small tweaks can transform this dish into a new experience—creamy, spicy, or herb-forward—without complicating the recipe.

What to Serve With Shrimp and Scallop Recipes

This shrimp and scallop dish shines as the star of your meal, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a restaurant-worthy experience. Here are my favorite ways to serve it:

Best Pasta Pairings

• Lemon Garlic Fettuccine – Toss the seafood and sauce directly with al dente fettuccine for a classic combo.
• Angel Hair Pasta – The delicate strands soak up the buttery sauce beautifully.
• Saffron Risotto – The creamy rice makes an elegant base for the seafood.

Light & Fresh Sides

• Garlic Butter Green Beans – Sautéed crisp-tender with slivered almonds.
• Arugula Salad – Tossed with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan.
• Roasted Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil and finished with sea salt.

Bread for Soaking Up Sauce

• Crusty Baguette – Warm and sliced for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted with parsley and grated cheese.
• Focaccia – Herb-infused and perfect for tearing and sharing.

For a Heartier Meal

• Creamy Polenta – A smooth, cheesy bed for the seafood.
• Mashed Potatoes – Infused with roasted garlic for extra flavor.
• Wild Rice Pilaf – Nutty and textured with mushrooms.

Presentation Tip: Serve family-style in a large pasta bowl or plate individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator Storage:
  • Let the dish cool completely before storing (within 2 hours of cooking).
  • Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Tip: Store seafood and sauce separately from pasta or grains to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing (Not Recommended for Scallops):
  • Shrimp can be frozen for up to 1 month, but scallops may become rubbery when thawed.
  • If freezing, use a freezer-safe bag, remove excess air, and label with the date.

Reheating for Best Results

• Stovetop Method (Recommended):
  1. Heat a skillet over low-medium heat with 1 tsp olive oil or butter.
  2. Add leftovers and 1-2 tbsp water or broth to loosen the sauce.
  3. Cover and heat gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave (In a Pinch):

• Place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water.
• Cover loosely and heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Avoid Overheating:

• Seafood cooks quickly—reheating too long can make it tough.
• Pasta may absorb more liquid; add extra broth if needed.

Safety Note: Discard if left at room temperature for over 2 hours.

Try These Recipes Next !!

If you love cooking and are looking for more recipes, we have a selection you’ll enjoy.

• Shrimp Orzo Recipes
• shrimp ramen noodle recipes
• Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
• Shrimp Rice Bowl

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Shrimp and Scallop Recipes

Jessica

shrimp and scallop recipes​: Try creamy Tuscan shrimp and scallops or shrimp and scallop pasta. Quick, garlicky dishes with sun dried tomatoes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp peeled/deveined
• 1 lb sea scallops muscle removed
• 8 oz fettuccine or GF pasta
• 3 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp lemon juice + zest
• Salt pepper, red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley garnish

Instructions

 

• Prep: Pat seafood dry; season. Cook pasta al dente.
• Sear Scallops: Heat oil/butter; cook 2 mins/side until golden. Set aside.
• Cook Shrimp: In same pan, sauté shrimp 1-2 mins/side. Remove.
• Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, deglaze with wine. Add cream, Parmesan, lemon. Simmer 3 mins.
• Combine: Toss pasta, seafood, and sauce. Garnish with parsley.

Pro Tip:

• For a lighter version, substitute cream with 1/2 cup pasta water + 1 tbsp cornstarch.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	10g
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g
Cholesterol	285mg
Sodium	850mg

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Never Fails

This shrimp and scallop recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy gourmet seafood at home. The garlic-lemon butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood, while optional add-ins like tomatoes or spinach add freshness. Quick, adaptable, and always delicious—this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Your Questions Answered: Shrimp & Scallop FAQs