Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta: A Romantic Dinner Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s an undeniable charm that fills the air when a dish just feels right like the comforting warmth of home amid the chill of a busy week. I recently stumbled upon this gem of a recipe for Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta, and let me tell you, it instantly made my heart flutter! Picture this: tender scallops, perfectly seared to golden perfection, nestled atop silky garlic pasta just waiting to embrace your taste buds.

With a touch of butter and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this indulgent meal transforms your dining table into a romantic Italian bistro perfect for that special dinner or even a midweek pick-me-up. What s more, it comes together in a flash, proving that elegance doesn t have to be complicated. So roll up your sleeves and let s create an extraordinary experience together, one delicious bite at a time!

Why Love Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta?

Indulgent Delight: This dish offers a luxurious feel without the restaurant price tag, making it perfect for romantic dinners at home.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just under 30 minutes, it s an ideal choice for weeknight cravings or surprise date nights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of buttery garlic pasta and sweet, seared scallops creates an unforgettable taste that will impress anyone.
Elegant Presentation: Serve it beautifully garnished with parsley for a gourmet touch that elevates your dining experience.
Versatile Option: Whether for a special occasion or a comforting meal, you can easily switch the scallops for shrimp or sea bass, ensuring this recipe stays fresh every time.

Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta Ingredients

For the Scallops
Scallops Ensure they re fresh for the best flavor and texture in your seared scallops over garlic pasta.
Olive Oil Helps achieve a perfect sear and prevents sticking; vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute.

For the Pasta
Pasta (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine) This forms the base and absorbs the rich garlic butter sauce; opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
Butter Enriches the garlic sauce and adds a velvety texture; choose unsalted for better control over seasoning.
Garlic Fresh cloves add aromatic depth; minced garlic provides maximum flavor.

For Garnish
Parsley (optional) Adds a fresh, bright touch to your dish; can be swapped with basil or chives for a different twist.

This luxurious dish is set to impress!

How to Make Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta

1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once it s al dente, drain it and set aside a bit of the pasta water for later use.

2. Sear the Scallops: Pat your fresh scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season them with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then carefully place the scallops in the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until they re golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove them and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until fragrant but not browned.

4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the luscious garlic butter sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Finish the Dish: Return the seared scallops to the pan and gently mix everything together. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta is a fantastic meal prep choice for busy weeknights or romantic dinners! You can prepare the garlic pasta up to 3 days in advance; simply cook it as instructed, toss it in olive oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerate in an airtight container. The scallops, however, are best cooked fresh they can be seasoned and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you re ready to serve, heat the pasta gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen it if needed, and then quickly sear the scallops until golden. This method retains the delightful textures and flavors, ensuring your meal is just as delicious!

Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful dish to match your cravings or dietary needs!

• Shrimp Swap: Substitute scallops with shrimp for a delicious twist; simply adjust searing time as shrimp cooks faster.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a burst of heat that complements the sweetness of scallops beautifully.

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace scallops with sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes, creating a rich, hearty alternative that still sings with flavor.

• Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and a nutty flavor; it s a wholesome alternative that tastes great!

• Lemon Zest: Enhance the dish with freshly grated lemon zest; it adds a bright, aromatic layer that elevates the overall flavor profile.

• Coconut Cream: For a tropical vibe, finish the garlic sauce with a splash of coconut cream instead of butter for a creamy, exotic flair.

• Pesto Infusion: Stir in a dollop of basil pesto when combining pasta and sauce for an herby freshness that perfectly balances the richness.

• Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh basil or chives to give the dish a unique twist each herb brings its own delightful essence!

Expert Tips for Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta

• Dry the Scallops: Make sure the scallops are thoroughly dried before searing to achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Sear scallops in batches if necessary; overcrowding the skillet can reduce heat and lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter and fresh garlic are essential for maximizing flavor in your seared scallops over garlic pasta.
• Monitor Garlic Closely: Keep a close eye on the garlic as it cooks burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste, ruining your delicious sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a little pasta water; it can be a game-changer for adjusting the consistency of your sauce later.

What to Serve with Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta?

Transform your sumptuous scallop dish into a delightful meal experience with these perfectly paired accompaniments.

• Steamed Asparagus:
  The crispiness of fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch, complementing the tender scallops while balancing the richness of the pasta.

• Sautéed Spinach:
  This vibrant green side brings a pop of color and a mild, savory flavor that enhances the garlic notes of the pasta.

• Garlic Bread:
  Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect vehicle to scoop up every last bit of sauce, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.

• Fresh Garden Salad:
  A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, elevating your dining experience with vibrant flavors.

• Lemon Sorbet:
  This refreshing dessert serves as a palate cleanser, brightening the evening with a zesty note following your luxurious main dish.

• Riesling Wine:
  The lightness and sweetness of Riesling beautifully pairs with the scallops, enhancing their flavor while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

• Herbed Quinoa:
  Light and fluffy, quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon zest provides an earthy balance, making it a delightful alternative to traditional sides.

With these pairings, your dinner is set to impress, transforming any occasion into something truly special!

How to Store and Freeze Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain flavor, reheat gently on low heat.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, store the scallops and pasta separately in airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, but note that scallops may lose some texture.

Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or butter to keep the dish moist.

Note: For optimal taste, enjoy your seared scallops over garlic pasta fresh, as the dish is best when just prepared.

Seared Scallops over Garlic Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of scallops should I use?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, look for fresh, dry scallops these tend to have a sweeter flavor and better texture. Avoid scallops that are wet or sitting in a milky liquid, as they may be soaked in preservatives. If possible, ask your fishmonger for dry scallops, which signify they have not been treated with chemicals.

How do I store leftovers from the seared scallops over garlic pasta?
Very good question! Store any leftover scallops and garlic pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It s best to reheat the dish gently over low heat to avoid drying out the scallops. Adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of butter during reheating can help retain moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze seared scallops over garlic pasta?
Of course! To freeze, it s best to store the scallops and pasta separately. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat gradually in a skillet over low heat, and consider adding a little olive oil or butter for moisture.

What if my scallops aren t browning properly?
That can be a bit tricky! To achieve a good sear, ensure your scallops are thoroughly dried before cooking excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of browning. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this will lower the pan s temperature and hinder that beautiful golden crust. Cook in batches if needed, giving each scallop some room to sizzle!

Can I adjust this recipe for gluten-free or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta, which works wonderfully with the garlic sauce. If you have seafood allergies, consider substituting scallops with grilled chicken or tofu, which can also be delicious with garlic pasta. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is properly cooked.

How should I check for freshness in scallops?
Great point! When choosing scallops, look for a creamy white or pale pink color with a slightly firm texture. Fresh scallops should smell like the ocean not fishy and if they have a slight sheen, that s a good sign they re fresh! If you notice any dark spots or off-putting odors, it s best to steer clear.