Lemon Garlic Scallops And Grits

Ingredients:

4c boiling water (or chicken broth)

1C Instant grits

1/2-1C grated Romano or parm

Sea Scallops

Juice of 1/2 a lemon

3 TBL butter

Chopped parsley

Minced garlic (2-4 cloves)

Crushed red pepper or cayenne

Instructions:

Bring water to a boil, slowly whisk in grits then bring down to med low, whisking occasionally till thickened. Add in romano/parm and salt pepper to taste, whisk in 1 Tbl butter

In a pan heat 2Tbl butter, add scallops and minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes- cook few min till scallops cooked through

Off heat add about a 2Tbl water, lemon juice, butter & parsley

Toss to coat, season w salt and pepper

Top grits w scallops and pour or spoon sauce over

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh scallops instead of sea scallops?

Yes, you can use fresh scallops instead of sea scallops.

Fresh scallops will work well in this recipe and provide a delicate flavor. Just ensure they are cooked through as instructed.

What can I substitute for Romano or Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Romano or Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute with another hard cheese such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano.

Adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.

Can I use regular grits instead of instant grits?

Yes, you can use regular grits instead of instant grits.

However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly as regular grits take longer to cook.

Follow the package instructions for cooking regular grits and incorporate the cheese as directed in the recipe.

How do I know when the scallops are cooked through?

Scallops are cooked through when they turn opaque and firm to the touch.

Avoid overcooking them to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.

Cook them for a few minutes on each side until they reach this desired texture.

Can I adjust the amount of garlic and crushed red pepper?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of garlic and crushed red pepper according to your taste preferences.

If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor or more heat from the red pepper, feel free to increase the quantities.

Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amounts accordingly.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or water?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth or water in the grits for added flavor.

It will complement the dish well.

How can I prevent my grits from becoming lumpy?

To prevent lumps in your grits, ensure you whisk continuously while adding them to the boiling liquid.

Gradually add the grits to the liquid while whisking to incorporate them smoothly.

Can I use other types of seafood instead of scallops?

Absolutely! While scallops are traditional in this dish, you can substitute them with shrimp, lobster, or even firm white fish like cod or halibut for a delicious variation.

Is it okay to use salted butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the overall salt content in the dish.

Adjust the amount of additional salt added to the recipe accordingly to avoid over-seasoning.

How long should I cook the scallops on each side?

Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and opaque in the center.

Avoid overcooking them to maintain their tender texture.

Can I prepare the scallop sauce ahead of time?

While it’s best to prepare the scallop sauce just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor, you can pre-measure the ingredients and have them ready to quickly assemble when needed.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with dried parsley flakes.

However, fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and flavor to the dish, so it’s preferable if available.

Can I omit the crushed red pepper or cayenne if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes, you can omit the crushed red pepper or cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor.

Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Should I rinse the scallops before cooking?

It’s not necessary to rinse the scallops before cooking unless they have a noticeable smell or grit on them.

Simply pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.

What side dishes pair well with Lemon Garlic Scallops and Grits?

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, a simple green salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.