Seared Scallop Delight with Zesty Vegetable Medley

Scallops with Stir-Fried Vegetables is a delightful one-dish meal that combines the delicate flavors of perfectly seared scallops with vibrant stir-fried vegetables, all brought together with a zesty sesame-lime vinaigrette. This recipe, originally featured in the book “Gourmet Cooking for Dummies,” promises to impress with its balance of textures and tastes.

Ingredients:

For Sesame-Lime Vinaigrette:

• Lime juice
• Shallots
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Canola oil
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

For Stir-Fried Vegetables:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Yellow bell pepper
• Red bell pepper
• Leek
• Carrot
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

For Sautéed Scallops:

• Sea scallops
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

Garnish:

• Chives

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 233.9
• Fat: 20.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Cholesterol: 10.4mg
• Sodium: 182.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 7.8g
  • Fiber: 1.1g
  • Sugar: 1.8g
• Protein: 6g

Instructions:

Sesame-Lime Vinaigrette:

1. In a small bowl, combine lime juice and shallots.
2. Slowly whisk in extra virgin olive oil, then canola oil.
3. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Double the recipe if you prefer extra vinaigrette.

Stir-Fried Vegetables:

1. Heat a large sauté pan or wok over high heat.
2. Add extra virgin olive oil and heat until shimmering.
3. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds without browning.
4. Add julienned yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, leek, and carrot.
5. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
7. Remove vegetables from the pan and set aside in a bowl.

Sautéed Scallops:

1. Season sea scallops with sea salt and black pepper.
2. In the same pan used for vegetables, add 1 tablespoon of oil and heat over medium-high heat.
3. Place scallops in the pan, ensuring they have space between them.
4. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Assembly:

1. Divide stir-fried vegetables among four plates, placing them in the center.
2. Arrange six scallops on top of the vegetables on each plate.
3. Spoon the sesame-lime vinaigrette over the scallops and around the plate.
4. Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh herbal accent.

Tips for Success:

• Scallops: Ensure scallops are dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve a good sear.
• Vegetables: Julienne the vegetables uniformly for even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
• Vinaigrette: Whisk the vinaigrette slowly to emulsify the oils for a smooth texture.
• Searing: For perfectly seared scallops, heat the pan adequately and avoid overcrowding.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavors of the sesame-lime vinaigrette and juices from the stir-fried vegetables. A crisp, chilled white wine or a citrus-infused cocktail would complement the dish’s bright and savory elements.

Conclusion:

Scallops with Stir-Fried Vegetables exemplifies the harmony of flavors and textures in a well-crafted one-dish meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience at home, this recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and visual appeal. With its low cholesterol and quick preparation time, it’s a perfect choice for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the blend of succulent scallops, crunchy vegetables, and tangy vinaigrette in every forkful, and savor the satisfaction of a dish that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat.