Seafood lovers, rejoice! If you’re on the hunt for a dish that is simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious, this prawn and scallop pasta recipe is perfect for you. With minimal effort and a few quality ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
It’s a versatile dish-you can adapt it to your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have in your pantry. If you’ve ever wondered how to get that perfect balance of succulent prawns, tender scallops, and perfectly al dente pasta, you’re in the right place.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting ingredients to mastering the cooking technique. And yes, we’ll also cover some time-saving tips, like using frozen seafood, so you can make this recipe even on your busiest days.
Why Frozen Ingredients Are a Game-Changer
Using frozen prawns and scallops might seem like a shortcut, but it’s a smart and sustainable choice. Here’s why:
Minimizing Food Waste
- Frozen seafood lasts longer: Fresh seafood has a short shelf life, while frozen options can be stored for months.
- Portion control: Only thaw what you need, reducing the chances of throwing away leftovers.
- Global impact: By opting for frozen, you’re contributing to a more sustainable food system with less waste.
Retaining Nutritional Value
Many people assume frozen seafood is less nutritious than fresh, but that’s a myth. In fact:
- Seafood is often flash-frozen at peak freshness, locking in nutrients.
- Vitamins and minerals are well-preserved, so you’re not missing out on health benefits.
Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness
- Always available: Frozen seafood is readily accessible year-round, regardless of the season.
- Budget-friendly: Frozen prawns and scallops are often more affordable than their fresh counterparts.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
This prawn and scallop pasta stands out for its:
- Rich, garlicky flavor with a hint of zest from lemon juice.
- Versatile ingredients: Works with any type of pasta and allows for easy substitutions.
- Perfect texture: Juicy prawns, tender scallops, and a creamy (or light) sauce.
- Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
What Ingredients Do You Need?
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe. Feel free to adjust quantities based on servings:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Prawns | 250g | Fresh or frozen (thawed). Deveined. |
| Scallops | 200g | Fresh or frozen (thawed). Pat dry before cooking. |
| Pasta | 300g | Spaghetti, linguine, or penne works well. |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves, minced | Adds depth of flavor. |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | For sautéing. |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Adds a bright, fresh touch. |
| White wine (optional) | 1/4 cup | Enhances the sauce’s flavor. |
| Heavy cream (optional) | 1/2 cup | For a creamy version of the recipe. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust based on preference. |
| Parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped | For garnish. |
Pro Tip
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili flakes or substitute parsley with fresh basil for a different flavor profile!
How to Make This Prawn and Scallop Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
- Thaw the prawns and scallops (if frozen) by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 20 minutes.
- Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures they sear properly.
- Season the seafood lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté the Seafood
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the scallops first, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Add the prawns, cooking until they turn pink and opaque (about 2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Deglaze the pan with white wine or pasta water. Let it reduce slightly.
- Add lemon juice and stir. For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Gently mix in the prawns and scallops.
- Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
Can You Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Here’s how to store and reheat this dish:
- Freezing Tips:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
FAQs
How do I avoid overcooking prawns and scallops?
Keep an eye on the cooking time! Prawns and scallops cook quickly within 2-3 minutes.
Can I use fresh seafood instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh seafood works wonderfully but may require more prep time.
What pasta works best for this dish?
Linguine or spaghetti is ideal, but any pasta will do.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Of course! Skip the cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.
What’s the best wine to pair with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
