Scallops with Hazelnuts and Browned Butter Vinaigrette

Succulent sea scallops seared to perfection, served with a rich browned butter vinaigrette, topped with toasted hazelnuts and fresh watercress. This elegant dish combines delicate seafood with nutty, buttery flavors.

2 servings
10 min

Ingredients

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 12 pieces large sea scallops
  • teaspoons fresh thyme
  • cup chopped shallots
  • ¼ cup husked hazelnuts
  • 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 bunch watercress
  • 1 portion thick stems

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Cook butter in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until deep golden brown and most of foam subsides, stirring frequently, about 4 minutes. Transfer butter to bowl, reserving skillet. Sprinkle scallops with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon thyme; add to reserved skillet and cook until just opaque in center, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Transfer scallops to plate. Add shallots, hazelnuts, and remaining 1 teaspoon thyme to skillet; stir 30 seconds. Remove skillet from heat. Add browned butter and vinegar; stir to blend. Season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.

    8 min

  2. 2.

    Divide watercress between 2 plates. Top with scallops and spoon warm vinaigrette over.

    2 min