Description
Seared Scallops and Spaghetti Squash is a light yet elegant seafood dinner featuring golden, buttery scallops served over tender roasted spaghetti squash with garlic, lemon, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, offering a flavorful and healthy low-carb meal perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) large sea scallops
Vegetables & Produce
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dairy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Prepare Spaghetti Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–45 minutes until tender.
- Scoop Spaghetti Strands: Let the roasted spaghetti squash cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, setting them aside.
- Season Scallops: Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear Scallops: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the scallops and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden crust. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat, then add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Toss Spaghetti Squash: Add the spaghetti squash strands and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to combine and warm through. Season with red pepper flakes if desired.
- Plate and Garnish: Divide the spaghetti squash between plates, top each serving with seared scallops, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Dry scallops thoroughly before searing for the best crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; sear scallops in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
- For a lower-carb meal, spaghetti squash is an excellent substitute for traditional pasta.
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes to the spaghetti squash for added color and nutrition.
- A small splash of white wine can be added to the garlic butter sauce for extra flavor complexity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Roasting, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
