Spaghetti With Spicy Scallop Marinara Sauce

Name: Spaghetti With Spicy Scallop Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Salt suitable for religious dietary restrictions; 12 ounces of spaghetti made from a mixture of multiple grains; 1 tablespoon of high-quality olive oil, plus additional for drizzling; 3 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced; 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, with more to taste; 1 can (28 ounces) of whole San Marzano tomatoes, manually crushed; 1 piece of parmesan cheese rind, approximately 1 inch in size; 1 cup of freshly sliced basil, packed loosely, with more for garnishing; 3/4 pound of bay scallops

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By AprilPublished Aug 14, 2023

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying pasta dish? Look no further than spaghetti with spicy scallop marinara sauce.

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Prep: 10 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: 30 min
Servings: 4

Method

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and add some salt.
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the label.
In a separate saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the saucepan and cook until the garlic becomes soft (approximately 1 minute).
Now, add the tomatoes, parmesan rind, half a cup of water, and half of the basil to the saucepan.
Bring the sauce to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Season the sauce with salt.
Increase the heat under the sauce to medium-high.
Add the scallops to the saucepan and cook them until they become opaque, stirring occasionally (approximately 5 minutes).
Remove the parmesan rind from the sauce.
Add the remaining basil to the sauce and season with salt and more red pepper flakes if desired.
Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta to coat it with the sauce.
Divide the pasta into serving bowls.
Drizzle some olive oil over the pasta and garnish with additional basil.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying pasta dish? Look no further than spaghetti with spicy scallop marinara sauce. This mouthwatering combination of tender scallops, zesty marinara sauce, and al dente spaghetti will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Let's dive into this recipe and discover how to create a culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Preparing the Spaghetti

The first step in creating this delectable dish is to prepare the spaghetti. Boil a pot of water and add a generous amount of salt. This will enhance the flavor of the pasta and ensure it is properly seasoned. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until it is al dente. Remember, al dente pasta has a slight bite to it, which adds texture and elevates the overall dish.

Creating the Spicy Scallop Marinara Sauce

While the spaghetti is cooking, it's time to prepare the star of the show - the spicy scallop marinara sauce. Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onions, saut√©ing them until they become fragrant and golden brown. Next, add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Adding the Scallops

Once the marinara sauce is ready, it's time to add the succulent scallops. Make sure the scallops are patted dry to ensure they sear properly. Carefully place them in the pan with the marinara sauce, making sure they are evenly spaced. Allow the scallops to cook for a few minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Serving and Enjoying

Now that the spaghetti is cooked to perfection and the scallops are seared to perfection, it's time to bring everything together. Drain the spaghetti and place it in a large serving bowl. Pour the spicy scallop marinara sauce over the pasta, making sure to evenly distribute the scallops. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

In Conclusion

Spaghetti with spicy scallop marinara sauce is a delightful dish that combines the richness of marinara sauce with the succulence of perfectly seared scallops. With a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-style meal right in your own kitchen. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting pasta dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?: Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this dish, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta such as linguine or fettuccine. The sauce will still taste delicious.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?: Certainly! You can omit the scallops and use vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers as a tasty substitute. The marinara sauce will still provide a robust flavor.
How spicy is the sauce?: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For those who enjoy a fiery kick, add more for an extra punch of heat.
Can I use frozen scallops?: While fresh scallops are ideal for this dish, you can use frozen scallops if that's what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.
How long does it take to cook the scallops?: Scallops cook quickly, usually taking only 2-3 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Can I add other seafood to the sauce?: Absolutely! If you want to enhance the seafood flavor, you can add shrimp or mussels to the sauce along with the scallops. This will create a delicious medley of seafood goodness.
Can I freeze the leftovers?: Yes, you can freeze the leftover spaghetti with spicy scallop marinara sauce. Store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating. However, keep in mind that the texture of the spaghetti may change slightly after freezing.
Can I make the sauce in advance?: Absolutely! You can make the spicy scallop marinara sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the scallops to enjoy a quick and delicious meal.