Scallops Mascarpone Recipe

Scallops Mascarpone Recipe Overview

Pantry Staples and Fresh Ingredients

The Scallops Mascarpone recipe is a sophisticated and indulgent dish that combines succulent scallops with the richness of mascarpone cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Here’s an overview of the recipe:

• Serves: 4
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

This recipe requires a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pantry Staples:

• Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup)
• Mascarpone cheese (8 ounces)
• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Lemon juice and zest (freshly squeezed)
• Salt

Fresh Ingredients:

• 12 large scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for garnish

This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the richness of mascarpone cheese, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or romantic dinner dates.

Fresh scallops, mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, garlic cloves, lemon zest, kosher salt, black pepper

The Scallops Mascarpone Recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the sweetness of fresh scallops with the richness of mascarpone cheese and cream.

Here’s an overview of the recipe and its ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• Fresh Scallops
• Mascarpone Cheese
• Heavy Cream

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 4-6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• Lemon zest (about 1 tablespoon)
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

The dish is characterized by its creamy sauce, made by combining mascarpone cheese with heavy cream and aromatics like garlic and lemon zest. This sauce is then paired with succulent fresh scallops that are cooked until tender.

Here’s a brief outline of the steps involved in preparing this recipe:

Cooking Scallops:

1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the scallops with kosher salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Making the Mascarpone Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and minced garlic. Heat over low heat until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
2. Stir in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and well combined with the cream.

Serving:

1. To serve, place a cooked scallop on each plate or serving dish. Spoon the creamy mascarpone sauce over the top of each scallop.

Chef’s Tip: Scallop Quality Matters

The Scallops Mascarpone Recipe is a decadent and indulgent dish that showcases the tender sweetness of scallops paired with the rich creaminess of mascarpone cheese. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners, as it exudes elegance and sophistication.

The key to this recipe lies in the quality of the scallops used. Freshness and sustainability are crucial when selecting scallops. Look for scallops that are labeled as “dry-packed,” meaning they have not been treated with preservatives or sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) to extend shelf life.

Choose scallops with a firm texture and a sweet, oceanic aroma. Avoid scallops that smell strongly of ammonia, as this can indicate low quality or spoilage. It’s also essential to handle the scallops gently to prevent damage and breakage, which can affect their texture and appearance.

Chef’s Tip: Scallop Quality Matters emphasizes the importance of selecting high-quality scallops for optimal flavor and texture. Fresh scallops will have a more vibrant color, a firmer texture, and a sweeter taste compared to older or lower quality scallops. This attention to detail ensures that every bite of the Scallops Mascarpone dish is nothing short of exceptional.

When preparing the scallops for this recipe, be sure to pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and searing. This helps remove excess moisture and promotes even browning. You can also marinate the scallops in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.

To make the mascarpone sauce, combine softened butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, then stir in diced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

Finish the dish by sautéing the scallops in a hot skillet with some oil or butter, then serve with the mascarpone sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with additional parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. The Scallops Mascarpone Recipe is sure to become a new favorite among seafood lovers and anyone who appreciates a rich, indulgent treat.

Source highquality scallops from reputable suppliers to ensure optimal flavor and texture

The Scallops Mascarpone recipe is a luxurious and decadent dish that showcases the sweetness of scallops paired with the creaminess of mascarpone cheese.

High-quality scallops are the foundation of this recipe, and it’s essential to source them from reputable suppliers to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

Scallops can be purchased from high-end seafood markets or online retailers that specialize in fresh and sustainable seafood.

When selecting scallops, look for those that are firm to the touch and have a sweet, slightly sweet aroma.

Avoid scallops that have any visible signs of damage or discoloration, as this can affect their flavor and texture.

To prepare the scallops for cooking, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Season the scallops with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Mascarpone cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe, and it’s essential to choose a high-quality brand that is rich and creamy.

Some popular brands of mascarpone include Dolce de Leche and Mascarpone by BelGioioso.

To prepare the mascarpone sauce, whip the cheese with heavy cream until it becomes light and airy.

Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor of the mascarpone sauce.

The Scallops Mascarpone recipe is typically cooked in a hot skillet or sauté pan, where the scallops are seared for 2-3 minutes on each side until they reach a golden brown color.

After cooking the scallops, remove them from the heat and add the mascarpone sauce to the skillet.

Return the skillet to the stovetop and cook the sauce for an additional minute or two, stirring constantly, until it becomes smooth and creamy.

To serve, place a seared scallop on each plate, followed by a spoonful of the mascarpone sauce.

Scallops Mascarpone Recipe Ingredients:

• 12 large scallops
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon juice (optional)

Scallops Mascarpone Recipe Steps:

1. Select high-quality scallops from reputable suppliers.
2. Rinse and dry the scallops under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season the scallops with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
4. Cook the scallops in a hot skillet or sauté pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until they reach a golden brown color.
5. Prepare the mascarpone sauce by whipping the cheese with heavy cream until it becomes light and airy.
6. Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor of the mascarpone sauce.
7. Return the skillet to the stovetop and cook the sauce for an additional minute or two, stirring constantly, until it becomes smooth and creamy.

Scallops Mascarpone Recipe Tips:

• Select scallops that are firm to the touch and have a sweet, slightly sweet aroma.
• Avoid scallops that have any visible signs of damage or discoloration.
• Use high-quality mascarpone cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Cook the scallops in a hot skillet or sauté pan to achieve a golden brown color.

Recipe Preparation Steps

Scallop Prep and Cooking

The preparation steps for the Scallops Mascarpone recipe involve several key elements to ensure that the dish is prepared correctly and presented elegantly.

Firstly, it’s essential to select high-quality scallops that are fresh and of the correct size. Fresh scallops should have a sweet smell and a firm texture; if they’re slimy or have an unpleasant odor, it’s best to avoid them. The ideal size for scallops in this recipe is typically around 12-15 ounces each.

Next, prepare the scallops by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the scallops and prevents excess moisture from affecting their texture during cooking.

Remove the side muscle from the scallop, if present. The side muscle is a small white or yellowish strip that can be found on one side of the scallop; it’s usually attached to the scallop by a few thin strings of connective tissue. Use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to gently remove the side muscle.

Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides, making sure not to over-season them. You can also add any other seasonings you prefer at this stage, such as lemon zest or garlic powder.

In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown color. This step is essential in creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest for a few minutes. This allows any excess moisture to be reabsorbed into the meat, making it more tender and juicy when you slice it.

While the scallops are cooking, prepare the mascarpone cream by whipping together 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives or parsley. You can also add a pinch of salt to taste at this stage.

To assemble the dish, place a cooked scallop on each plate and spoon some of the mascarpone cream over the top. Garnish with additional chives or parsley if desired, and serve immediately while the scallops are still warm.

Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, season with salt and pepper

To prepare the scallops for the Scallops Mascarpone Recipe, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the scallops under cold water: This helps to remove any impurities or debris from the surface of the scallops. Make sure to rinse them gently to avoid damaging the delicate flesh.
2. Pat dry with paper towels: After rinsing, use paper towels to pat the scallops dry. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevent steaming during cooking. Hold each scallop firmly and gently press it against the paper towel to absorb any remaining moisture.
3. Season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle both sides of the scallops with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Be careful not to over-season, as the scallops will cook quickly and the flavors should be balanced.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have perfectly prepared scallops for your Scallops Mascarpone Recipe. Remember to handle the scallops gently to avoid breaking them, and don’t overcrowd the pan during cooking to ensure even cooking.

Cook scallops in a skillet over mediumhigh heat until golden brown on both sides

To prepare the scallops for cooking, rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Cut off any tough or rubbery ends from the sides of each scallop and discard.

Season the scallops on both sides with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of paprika

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of butter or oil to the pan, depending on your preference.

Once the butter has melted or the oil is hot, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each one to allow for even cooking.

Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until they develop a golden brown color and start to release from the pan.

Flip the scallops over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest while you finish preparing the Mascarpone sauce.

Mascarpone Cream Sauce Preparation

To prepare a rich and creamy Mascarpone cream sauce to accompany Scallops, follow these detailed steps.

Firstly, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients, including 8 ounces (225g) of mascarpone cheese at room temperature, 1/2 cup (115ml) of heavy cream, a pinch of salt, and any desired flavorings such as lemon zest or finely chopped fresh herbs.

Next, in a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until it starts to simmer. Be cautious not to let it boil, as this can cause the cream to separate and result in an undesirable texture.

Remove the warmed cream from the heat source and slowly pour it into a clean mixing bowl containing the mascarpone cheese. This step is crucial to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.

Using a whisk or spatula, gently mix the cream and mascarpone together until smooth and fully incorporated. Be patient as this process may take a few minutes.

Add the salt and any additional flavorings you like (such as lemon zest or chopped herbs) to the mixture and continue to whisk until well combined.

Transfer the Mascarpone cream sauce to a serving dish, such as a small sauceboat. This will keep it warm while you finish preparing your Scallops.

Continue with cooking your Scallops according to your preferred recipe. When ready to serve, spoon the Mascarpone cream sauce over the Scallops and enjoy!

In a saucepan, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, garlic cloves, lemon zest, kosher salt, black pepper

To prepare the sauce for the scallops mascarpone recipe, start by combining the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat.

Add the minced garlic cloves to the saucepan and whisk until the garlic is fully incorporated into the mixture and fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn or brown, as this can give the dish an unpleasant flavor.

Next, add the lemon zest to the saucepan and whisk again to combine. The lemon zest will add a bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce that pairs perfectly with the rich mascarpone cheese.

Add a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper to the saucepan and whisk until well combined. The kosher salt will enhance the flavors in the dish without adding any additional sweetness or bitterness, while the black pepper adds depth and warmth.

Continue to whisk the mixture over low heat, allowing it to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and reduced by about half. This will help to intensify the flavors in the dish and create a rich, creamy sauce that coats the scallops perfectly.

As the sauce is cooking, prepare the scallops according to your recipe. You can typically season them with salt and pepper, and then sear or pan-fry them until they’re cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Once the sauce has finished simmering, remove it from heat and stir in any additional ingredients that you’ve added, such as chopped fresh herbs or grated citrus zest. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or other flavorings to taste.

The final step is to serve the scallops with the mascarpone sauce spooned over the top. You can garnish with additional fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or other toppings of your choice to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Heat mixture over low heat until smooth and heated through

To prepare this decadent Scallops Mascarpone recipe, follow these detailed steps:

Recipe Preparation Steps

**Step 1: Prepare the Scallops**

• Clean and rinse 12 large scallops under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels.

• Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides to bring out their natural flavors.

**Step 2: Sear the Scallops**

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, until it reaches a scorching temperature.

2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.

3. Place the scallops in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.

**Step 3: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture**

• In a separate saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over low heat until it starts to simmer.

• Add 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese to the warm cream and stir until it’s smooth and heated through.

**Step 4: Assemble and Serve**

1. Place a cooked scallop on each plate, leaving space for the creamy mascarpone sauce.

2. Spoon the warm mascarpone mixture over the top of each scallop, allowing it to flow down around the edges.

This indulgent Scallops Mascarpone recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests with its rich flavors and velvety texture. Buon appetito!

Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once you have prepared and cooked the Scallops Mascarpone recipe to perfection, it’s time to think about adding those final finishing touches that will elevate the dish from great to exceptional.

One of the most crucial elements in completing your Scallops Mascarpone is garnishing with fresh herbs. Chopped parsley or chives are excellent choices as they not only add a pop of color but also introduce a delightful freshness that complements the rich flavors of the mascarpone and scallops.

Another finishing touch worth considering is a squeeze of lemon juice over the dish just before serving. This not only brightens the flavors but also provides a beautiful balance to the richness of the dish, preventing it from feeling overwhelming.

In terms of serving suggestions for your Scallops Mascarpone recipe, simplicity and elegance are key. Presenting the scallops on a bed of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables adds depth to the dish without overpowering it. A sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can also add a whimsical touch.

When it comes to serving variations, the Scallops Mascarpone recipe offers plenty of opportunities for creative interpretation. Consider substituting the scallops with other types of seafood such as shrimp or salmon for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you could swap out the mascarpone for another rich and creamy cheese like brie or goat cheese.

Another delicious twist is to add some caramelized onions or roasted garlic to the dish, which will introduce a deep and savory element that pairs beautifully with the scallops and mascarpone. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own unique flavor combinations!

To take your Scallops Mascarpone recipe to the next level, consider serving it with some crusty bread or roasted potatoes on the side. This will not only add a satisfying element of texture but also provide a delicious means of sopping up any remaining sauce.

Lastly, don’t forget about presentation! A beautifully plated dish can make all the difference in wowing your guests. Consider garnishing with some edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and whimsy to the plate.

Serve scallops with mascarpone sauce over pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish

To add the finishing touches and serving suggestions to this decadent scallops mascarpone recipe, you can consider the following:

• Pairing with Pasta:

• Twirl the tender pasta around your fork and enjoy it with the creamy sauce and succulent scallops.

• Try pairing it with a light and delicate fettuccine or linguine to let the flavors shine through.

• Pairing with Rice:

• Serve the scallops over a bed of flavorful saffron-infused risotto for a truly luxurious experience.

• Or try pairing it with a simple yet elegant jasmine rice to let the delicate flavors of the scallops take center stage.

• Serving as a Standalone Dish:

• Add some crusty bread or garlic toast on the side to mop up every last drop of that creamy mascarpone sauce.

• Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

You can also consider garnishing with some microgreens, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to add an extra touch of elegance to the dish.

Another idea is to serve it in small cups or ramekins as individual servings, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this scallops mascarpone recipe is sure to impress and delight your taste buds with its creamy richness and tender sweetness.

Offer garnishes such as microgreens, lemon wedges, or crispy shallots to add texture and flavor

The finishing touches on a dish like scallops with mascarpone can elevate it from good to exceptional. Adding garnishes such as microgreens, lemon wedges, or crispy shallots provides not only visual appeal but also an additional layer of flavor and texture.

Microgreens are a great choice because they add a burst of freshness and a peppery flavor that complements the rich mascarpone sauce. You can choose from a variety of microgreens such as pea shoots, purslane, or even arugula to match your taste preferences.

Lemon wedges are another popular garnish for scallops with mascarpone. The brightness of the lemon cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a nice acidity that helps balance out the flavors. You can also squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving for an added burst of citrus flavor.

Crispy shallots, on the other hand, add a satisfying crunch to the dish. They are made by thinly slicing shallots and then frying them until crispy. This garnish adds a nice savory element to the dish and helps balance out the sweetness of the scallops.

Other finishing touches you can consider include a sprinkle of parsley or basil for added freshness, a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an luxurious touch. The key is to experiment and find the combination that works best for your taste preferences.

When it comes to serving suggestions, scallops with mascarpone pair well with a variety of sides to complement their rich flavors. Some popular options include:

Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts: The bitterness of the greens provides a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

Sautéed spinach: Quickly cooked with garlic and lemon, this side dish adds some much-needed freshness to the plate.

Brown rice or roasted potatoes: These starchy sides help balance out the fatty acidity of the mascarpone sauce.

Garlic bread: A classic Italian staple that pairs well with the savory flavors of the scallops and mascarpone.

Note: The above outline follows the AP Stylebook guidelines for recipe writing.

To take your Scallops Mascarpone dish to the next level, consider adding some finishing touches that will elevate both the presentation and flavor.

Here are some ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers for added color and freshness

• Crispy shallots or garlic can be used as a garnish to add texture and crunch

• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or truffle oil can enhance the flavors of the dish

• Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives can be chopped and sprinkled on top for added fragrance

For serving suggestions:

1. Serve the Scallops Mascarpone with a side of garlic and herb roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts

2. Pair the dish with a simple green salad, topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette

3. For a heartier option, serve the scallops with a side of creamy risotto or roasted root vegetables

4. Consider serving the dish at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together before serving

These finishing touches and serving suggestions will help you create a memorable and delicious Scallops Mascarpone experience for your guests.