Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops: A Luxurious Coastal Italian Delight

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Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops, a dish that marries the rustic charm of Tuscan cuisine with the delicate, buttery essence of seared scallops. This recipe is a celebration of bold, comforting ingredients—crisp bacon, velvety cream sauce, and tender pasta—paired with the sophistication of perfectly cooked scallops. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish promises to impress with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Let’s dive into this culinary journey that brings the warmth of Tuscany and the freshness of the sea to your table!

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite long pasta, like linguine or fettuccine)
• 1 lb jumbo scallops, fresh or frozen (thawed if frozen), rinsed and thoroughly patted dry
• 6-8 slices thick-cut bacon, diced into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 4-5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 ¼ cups heavy cream (for a luscious, rich sauce)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for a Tuscan herb flair)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water (to adjust sauce consistency)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for a vibrant garnish

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta to Perfection
   Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it reaches al dente—a tender yet slightly firm texture. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, which will help create a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the other components.
2. Crisp Up the Bacon
   In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works wonderfully for even heat), cook the diced bacon over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, allowing the bacon to turn golden and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. The aroma of sizzling bacon will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come. Once crisp, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor, discarding any excess.
3. Sear the Scallops for Golden Perfection
   Pat the scallops dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving a beautiful, caramelized sear. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the reserved bacon fat and heat over medium-high until shimmering. Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded (work in batches if needed). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, undisturbed, until a golden-brown crust forms and the scallops are opaque in the center. Remove the scallops to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
4. Craft the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
   Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and any browned bits in the pan. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using), whisking until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Bring It All Together
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy sauce to coat every strand. If the sauce feels too thick, incorporate more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the texture is velvety and clings to the pasta. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, folding it in to distribute its smoky, savory flavor throughout the dish.
6. Plate and Garnish
   Divide the creamy spaghetti among four plates or shallow bowls. Top each portion with 3-4 seared scallops, arranging them artfully for a stunning presentation. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love an extra cheesy kick.

Tips for Success

• Choosing Scallops: Opt for fresh, dry-packed scallops if possible, as they sear better than wet-packed ones. If using frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat them thoroughly dry to avoid excess moisture.
• Pasta Variations: While spaghetti is classic, feel free to experiment with linguine, tagliatelle, or even a short pasta like rigatoni for a different texture.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. You can also add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a Tuscan-inspired twist.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Note that scallops are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them the same day.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops is a showstopper that balances indulgence with elegance. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, evokes the comforting flavors of Tuscany, while the perfectly seared scallops add a touch of coastal luxury. The bacon brings a smoky depth that ties everything together, making each bite a delightful interplay of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes from the scallops. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for a romantic date night, a family gathering, or a special occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp, chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the richness of the cream sauce and the delicate flavor of the scallops. For a complete meal, serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For dessert, consider a light, citrusy treat like lemon sorbet or a fruit tart to cleanse the palate.

The Tuscan Inspiration

Tuscan cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and reliance on high-quality ingredients, and this dish pays homage to that tradition while adding a seafood twist. The creamy sauce is reminiscent of classic Italian comfort food, while the scallops elevate it to a dish worthy of a special occasion. Whether you’re dreaming of a Tuscan countryside villa or a seaside escape, this recipe brings those vibes to your kitchen with every delicious bite.

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