On a picturesque seaside vacation, I savored a dish that encapsulated the essence of the ocean’s bounty: Shrimp and Scallops with Garlic and Basil. This delightful recipe features plump shrimps and tender scallops, sautéed with fragrant garlic and fresh basil, delivering a burst of aromatic and savory flavors. The seafood perfectly absorbs the garlicky basil sauce, creating an entrancing, flavorful experience with each bite.
Motivated by this memorable taste during my travels, I was driven to recreate and perfect this dish in my own kitchen. After several trials, adjusting the garlic to basil ratio to enhance the natural sweetness of the shellfish without overpowering it, I perfected the recipe. Now, I am excited to share this delectable seafood creation with you, bringing the fresh, aromatic joy of my culinary adventure by the sea right to your dining table.
Shrimp and scallops with garlic and basil recipe
Shrimp and scallops with garlic and basil
The "Shrimp and Scallops with Garlic and Basil" is an enchanting seafood recipe that marries the delicate flavors of shrimps and scallops with the bold aromatics of garlic and the freshness of basil. This dish highlights the natural sweetness and tender textures of both shrimp and scallops, which are enhanced by a light, garlicky sauce infused with basil's vibrant, herby notes. It's a culinary creation perfect for those who appreciate the sophistication of simple ingredients brought together to create a memorable flavor experience. The recipe originated from a wonderful dining experience during a seaside vacation and has since been perfected at home, making it an ideal choice for a refined yet easy-to-prepare meal that promises to delight the senses.
Equipment
- 1 pan
Ingredients
- 6 scallops
- 6-8 shrimps
- a little flour 2-3 tablespoons
- olive oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic
- a few sprigs of fresh basil
- lemon juice
- salt pepper
Instructions
- Wash scallops, well clear of sand.
- Cut them in half, horizontally.
- Shrimp clean, leaving only the tails.
- The dark intestinal vein removed, notched with a sharp knife back.
- scallops and shrimp with salt and pepper, sprinkle with a little flour.
- Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, put the shrimp and scallops.
- Fry on one side for 2-3 minutes.
- Turn, add the chopped garlic and chopped basil.
- Shake the pan to distribute the basil and garlic evenly.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with lemon juice and serve immediately.
Cooking tips about Shrimp and scallops with garlic and basil
- Quality of Seafood: Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and scallops for the best flavor and texture. Fresh seafood should smell like the ocean, not fishy.
- Preparation of Shrimp and Scallops: Pat the shrimp and scallops dry before cooking to get a nice sear. Make sure the scallops are free of moisture to allow them to brown nicely in the pan rather than steam.
- Garlic and Basil Ratio: Use fresh garlic and basil to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood. Mince the garlic finely to distribute its flavor more evenly, and add chopped fresh basil towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and aroma.
- Cooking Process: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add garlic first to infuse the oil, then introduce the shrimp and scallops. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan so each piece can sear correctly, optimizing both texture and taste.
- Do Not Overcook: Both shrimp and scallops cook quickly, usually in just a couple of minutes per side. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the scallops have a golden crust on each side but remain translucent in the center.
- Deglazing the Pan: After removing the shrimp and scallops, deglaze the pan with white wine or a splash of lemon juice. This step will lift the fond (the brown bits left in the pan) off the bottom, which is packed with flavor.
- Finishing Touches: Return the seafood to the pan, toss with the basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If desired, sprinkle some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately, perhaps over pasta or alongside a salad. The simplicity of the pasta will complement the rich garlic-basil sauce, while a light salad can balance the meal’s richness.
Serving suggestions about Shrimp and scallops with garlic and basil
- On a Bed of Pasta: Serve the seafood over freshly cooked linguine or fettuccine. The pasta will absorb the garlicky basil sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- With Crusty Bread: Accompany the dish with slices of crusty bread such as baguette or ciabatta. This allows for sopping up any remaining sauce, ensuring that none of the delicious flavors go to waste.
- As a Seafood Salad: Toss the shrimp and scallops with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the garlic and basil sauce.
- Risotto Pairing: Serve alongside a creamy Parmesan risotto. The smoothness of the risotto pairs excellently with the textured seafood, making for a luxurious meal.
- Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which will complement the light and aromatic flavors of the garlic and basil without overpowering the seafood.
- Gourmet Tapas Style: Offer the dish as part of a tapas selection, allowing guests to enjoy small, flavorful bites along with other delicacies.
- As Part of a Buffet: Include it in a buffet spread with other seafood dishes, providing a variety of flavors and options for guests.
Top 5 FAQs about Shrimp and scallops with garlic and basil
- What are the best types of shrimp and scallops to use for this recipe? For optimal flavor and texture, choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and scallops. Larger shrimp and dry-packed scallops, which haven’t been treated with chemicals or water, are preferable as they sear better and have a purer flavor.
- How do I prevent the garlic from burning while cooking? Start by heating the oil over medium-high heat and add the garlic, stirring frequently, just until it becomes aromatic—this usually takes a minute. Adding the shrimp and scallops right after will reduce the chances of the garlic burning.
- Can I substitute dried basil if fresh is not available? While fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Remember to use a third of the amount of dried basil compared to fresh, as it is more concentrated.
- What side dishes complement Shrimp and Scallops with Garlic and Basil? This dish goes well with lightly buttered pasta, fluffy white rice, or a crisp garden salad. These sides help balance the richness of the seafood and enhance the garlic-basil flavors.
- Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time? It’s best served immediately after cooking to maintain the ideal texture of the shrimp and scallops. However, you can prepare ingredients such as chopping garlic and basil ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
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