Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Parmesan Risotto

This dish appears to be Pan-Seared Sea Scallops served over Creamy Parmesan Risotto, finished with fresh chives and cracked black pepper. The scallops have a beautiful golden crust while remaining tender and buttery inside.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

• 1 lb (450 g) large sea scallops

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• Salt and black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Parmesan Risotto

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• 4 cups warm chicken or seafood stock

• 1 small shallot, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp butter

• ½ cup dry white wine

• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh chives, chopped

• Cracked black pepper

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Risotto

1. Heat stock in a saucepan and keep warm.

2. Melt butter in a large skillet.

3. Sauté shallots for 2–3 minutes.

4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

5. Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1 minute.

6. Pour in white wine and cook until absorbed.

Step 2: Cook the Risotto

1. Add warm stock one ladle at a time.

2. Stir frequently.

3. Wait until liquid is absorbed before adding more.

4. Continue for 18–20 minutes until rice is creamy and tender.

Step 3: Finish the Risotto

1. Stir in:

   • Parmesan cheese

   • Heavy cream (optional)

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Cover and keep warm.

Step 4: Sear the Scallops

1. Pat scallops completely dry.

2. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

3. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet.

4. Add scallops without overcrowding.

5. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown.

6. Add butter during the last minute and baste.

Step 5: Plate

1. Spoon risotto into shallow bowls.

2. Arrange scallops on top.

3. Garnish with chives and black pepper.

4. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

✅ Dry scallops thoroughly for the perfect caramelized crust.
✅ Never move scallops while searing.
✅ Risotto should flow slowly on the plate, not be stiff.
✅ Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum creaminess.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 620–700

• Protein: 32–38 g

• Carbohydrates: 42–48 g

• Fat: 32–38 g

Flavor Profile

🦪 Sweet, buttery sea scallops
🧀 Rich Parmesan risotto
🧈 Silky and creamy texture
🌿 Fresh chive finish
🔥 Golden restaurant-quality sear

Prep Time

• 15 minutes

Cook Time

• 30 minutes

Total Time

• 45 minutes

An elegant fine-dining classic that combines perfectly seared scallops with luxurious Parmesan risotto for a restaurant-quality meal at home. ✨🦪🍚🧀🍷