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Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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Introduction

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce combine sweet, tender scallops with a bold, smoky cream sauce kissed with Cajun spice. It’s elegant, indulgent, and perfect for date nights or special home-cooked dinners.

Origin

Cajun cuisine comes from Louisiana’s rich blend of French, African, and Southern influences. Pairing spicy cream sauces with seafood is a classic technique, elevated here with beautifully seared scallops.

Cultural Significance

This dish celebrates Gulf Coast flavors—bold seasoning, creamy sauces, and seafood cooked simply but expertly. It’s comfort food with fine-dining flair.

Ingredients and Quantities

Scallops

  • 450 g (1 lb) large sea scallops
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter

Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup chicken or seafood broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Optional Additions

  • Sautéed shrimp or crawfish
  • Diced bell peppers
  • Fresh thyme or parsley
  • Splash of white wine

Tips for Success

  1. Dry Scallops Thoroughly: Ensures a perfect sear.
  2. Hot Pan Is Key: Don’t move scallops while searing.
  3. Don’t Overcook: 2–3 minutes per side is perfect.
  4. Adjust Heat: Cajun seasoning varies in spice.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Scallops:
    • Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear Scallops:
    • Heat olive oil and butter in skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear scallops 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
    • Remove and set aside.
  5. Make Sauce:
    • Lower heat to medium.
    • Add butter and garlic; sauté 30 seconds.
    • Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne.
    • Add broth and cream; simmer 4–5 minutes until thickened.
  7. Finish Sauce:
    • Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice.
  9. Serve:
    • Spoon sauce onto plates and top with scallops.
    • Garnish with parsley.

Description

The scallops are perfectly caramelized and tender, while the Cajun cream sauce is smoky, spicy, and luxuriously smooth—rich without overpowering the seafood.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated fat: 22 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Sodium: 740 mg

Conclusion

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce bring restaurant-quality elegance straight to your kitchen. It’s bold, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to make.

Recommendation

Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, creamy grits, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Use half-and-half instead of cream or reduce Parmesan slightly to lighten the dish while keeping its luxurious flavor.

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