When the spring season is in full bloom, it brings a wealth of fresh, vibrant ingredients that inspire a light and flavorful approach to cooking. One recipe that truly celebrates the essence of spring is the combination of seared scallops with creamy mascarpone cheese and a crisp cucumber salad. This dish seamlessly merges the luxury of golden scallops with the refreshing burst of seasonal vegetables, creating a balance that’s both indulgent and invigorating.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Scallops & Base:
- 1 ½ lbs sea scallops, side muscle removed
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- Neutral cooking oil
- Cucumber Salad:
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced on a mandolin
- 1 avocado, pitted and diced
- 2 radishes, thinly sliced on a mandolin
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- ¼ lb sugar snap peas, thinly sliced on an angle
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh dill leaves
- Flaky sea salt
Directions
- Prepare Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Make the Cucumber Salad:
- Combine the cucumber, avocado, radishes, scallions, snap peas, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil in a mixing bowl.
- Toss well and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook the Scallops:
- Heat a 12” stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add just enough neutral cooking oil to coat the bottom.
- When the oil is very hot, place the scallops into the skillet without overcrowding. Sear for about 2 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip the scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread the mascarpone cheese onto a large plate.
- Arrange the scallops on top and spoon the cucumber salad over them.
- Garnish with fresh dill, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Nutritional Value (per serving):
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: ~22 g
- Fat: ~23 g
- Saturated Fat: ~7 g
- Carbohydrates: ~8 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Sugars: ~2 g
- Cholesterol: ~55 mg
- Sodium: ~400 mg
Why This Recipe Shines in Spring
Spring is a season of renewal, and with it comes an array of fresh produce and lighter eating habits. This recipe captures the spirit of spring with its reliance on crisp, seasonal ingredients like cucumbers, radishes, snap peas, and scallions. These vegetables are at their peak in flavor and texture during this time, providing a vibrant contrast to the rich and buttery scallops.
The addition of mascarpone cheese ties the dish together with its creamy and mildly tangy profile. It serves as a luxurious base for the seared scallops and salad, adding depth without overpowering the delicate flavors of the other components. The result is a dish that’s perfectly suited for springtime dining—light yet satisfying, with a beautiful interplay of textures and flavors.
A Celebration of Contrasting Textures and Flavors
One of the key reasons this dish is so captivating is its masterful balance of textures and flavors. The scallops, with their golden, caramelized crust and tender interior, offer a delightful contrast to the cool, crisp cucumber salad. The creamy mascarpone acts as a bridge, enriching the dish while allowing the freshness of the vegetables to shine.
The salad itself is a medley of crunchy and creamy elements, from the crisp snap peas and radishes to the buttery avocado. A splash of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the scallops, making each bite an explosion of springtime freshness.
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe doesn’t just deliver on taste; it also packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Here are some of its key benefits:
- Scallops: A fantastic source of lean protein, scallops are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation. They’re naturally low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for lighter meals.
- Mascarpone Cheese: While indulgent, mascarpone is a good source of calcium and provides a creamy richness that allows you to enjoy a satisfying dish without relying on heavy sauces.
- Cucumber Salad Ingredients:
- Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, offering a refreshing crunch.
- Radishes are high in antioxidants and add a peppery zing.
- Avocado contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a creamy texture.
- Snap Peas provide fiber and vitamins, such as vitamin C and vitamin K.
When combined, these ingredients create a meal that’s not only delicious but also nourishing and balanced.
Tips for Perfect Execution
To ensure this recipe turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Choosing the Right Scallops: Opt for dry-packed scallops instead of wet-packed ones. Dry-packed scallops are not treated with chemicals, allowing them to develop a better sear and a more natural flavor.
- Searing Like a Pro: Pat the scallops dry before cooking and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This prevents steaming and ensures a golden crust. Use a stainless steel skillet and make sure the oil is hot before adding the scallops.
- Achieving the Perfect Salad: Use a mandolin for slicing the cucumber and radishes to achieve uniform thinness. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures even flavor distribution in every bite.
- Balancing the Flavors: Season the salad and scallops with a light hand to let the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through. A pinch of flaky sea salt and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper are all you need for the final garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile enough to be served as a sophisticated appetizer or a light main course. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to enhance the fresh flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light risotto to soak up the creamy mascarpone and salad juices.
Conclusion: A Seasonal Delight Worth Sharing
Seared scallops with mascarpone cheese and vibrant cucumber salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of springtime’s best offerings. The combination of tender, golden scallops, rich mascarpone, and a crisp, refreshing salad creates a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a spring dinner party or simply looking for a light and nourishing meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Not only does it showcase the flavors of the season, but it also brings a balance of textures, nutrients, and colors to the table. With a few simple techniques and fresh ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the taste of spring in every bite!