Scallops and sweet potatoes might not be the first pairing that comes to mind, but together they create a deliciously balanced dish that’s both elegant and comforting. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tender scallops alongside the creamy, earthy flavor of roasted sweet potatoes. It’s a perfect meal for when we want something quick yet impressive.
Ingredients
To craft this luscious Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe, we carefully select ingredients that highlight the natural flavors while maintaining a harmonious balance. Below are the essential components broken down for clarity.
Scallops
- 1 pound fresh sea scallops, patted dry
- Choose large or jumbo scallops for a tender, succulent bite
- Ensure scallops are dry-packed for better searing
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Opt for firm and vibrant orange sweet potatoes for best texture and sweetness
Seasonings and Spices
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances natural flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds subtle heat and depth |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth and smoky undertone |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Provides aromatic foundation |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tablespoon | Offers herbal freshness |
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for roasting and searing
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, to enrich scallops’ flavor
- Juice of half a lemon, to brighten and balance richness
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish and freshness
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in making our Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe a truly memorable dish. Let’s prepare these thoughtfully for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe we need the right tools that ensure precision and ease throughout the cooking process. Here’s a detailed list of essential equipment for a smooth and successful preparation.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | For searing the scallops to achieve a golden crust |
| Baking Sheet | Roasting sweet potatoes evenly in the oven |
| Mixing Bowls | Tossing sweet potatoes with seasonings and oil |
| Chef’s Knife | Peeling and chopping sweet potatoes precisely |
| Cutting Board | Safe and stable surface for cutting ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurately measuring spices and seasonings |
| Tongs | Turning scallops gently without breaking |
| Spatula | Stirring sweet potatoes during roasting |
| Citrus Juicer | Extracting fresh lemon juice |
| Paper Towels | Patting scallops dry to ensure proper searing |
We highly recommend using a heavy-bottomed skillet to distribute heat evenly while searing scallops. This helps develop a rich caramelized crust that enhances flavor and texture.
For roasting sweet potatoes, a rimmed baking sheet allows hot air to circulate efficiently. Lining it with parchment paper simplifies clean-up and prevents sticking.
Using tongs instead of a fork to handle the scallops preserves their delicate texture, preventing damage during cooking.
Having these essential tools on hand helps us maintain precision and achieve the ideal balance between the tender scallops and creamy roasted sweet potatoes.
Preparation
To create the perfect Scallops Sweet Potato dish, we must carefully handle each ingredient to ensure bold flavors and ideal textures. This section guides us through the essential steps for preparing both the sweet potatoes and scallops.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
- Wash and peel 2 medium sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt and skin.
- Cut into uniform cubes about 1-inch size. This ensures even roasting and creamy texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to achieve golden edges and tender centers.
- Once roasted, set aside and keep warm for serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes | 2 medium | Base ingredient, roasted |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Adds crispiness and flavor |
| Sea Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances natural sweetness |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Imparts smoky depth |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon | Adds savory richness |
| Fresh Thyme Leaves | 1 tablespoon, chopped | Fresh herbal aroma |
Preparing the Scallops
- Start with fresh sea scallops (about 12 large scallops), patting them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry scallops sear better, achieving a golden crust.
- Season scallops on both sides with:
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. The combination enhances flavor and prevents burning.
- Place the scallops gently into the hot skillet, leaving space between each to avoid steaming.
- Sear scallops undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. Use tongs to flip carefully.
- Remove scallops from heat and squeeze 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice over them for brightness.
- Garnish immediately with chopped fresh parsley before plating.
| Step | Detail | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Dry scallops | Pat thoroughly to remove moisture | 1-2 minutes |
| Season scallops | Salt and pepper | Immediately before cooking |
| Heat skillet | Medium-high, hot | 3-4 minutes heating |
| Cook scallops side 1 | Sear without moving | 2-3 minutes |
| Cook scallops side 2 | Flip and sear | 2-3 minutes |
| Finish and garnish | Lemon juice and parsley | Immediately after cooking |
By carefully preparing each component using these precise steps, we set the foundation for a perfectly balanced Scallops Sweet Potato dish that bursts with complementary flavors and textures.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to perfectly prepare our Scallops Sweet Potato recipe. We will start with roasting the sweet potatoes to creamy tenderness and then sear the scallops to a golden crust for an elegant and flavorful combination.
Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
-
Prepare the sweet potatoes:
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to promote even cooking.
- Season the sweet potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubes with:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Arrange on a baking sheet:
- Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Avoid overcrowding to allow crisp edges.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes:
- Roast until the sweet potatoes are tender inside and slightly caramelized on the outside.
- Halfway through cooking, use a spatula to flip the cubes for even browning.
- Finish:
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped thyme or parsley to enhance fragrance and color.
| Step | Action | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | Prepare oven for roasting | 425°F (220°C) | — |
| Cube & season | Cut and toss with spices | — | — |
| Roast sweet potatoes | Cook until tender & caramelized | 425°F (220°C) | 25-30 minutes |
| Flip halfway | Turn cubes for even roasting | — | 12-15 minutes |
Searing the Scallops
- Prepare the scallops:
- Pat dry fresh sea scallops thoroughly using paper towels to achieve a perfect sear.
- Season both sides with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the skillet:
- Place a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter.
- Heat until butter foams but does not brown.
- Sear the scallops:
- Gently place scallops in the skillet, leaving space between them.
- Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip scallops using tongs for another 1-2 minutes to finish cooking.
- Avoid overcooking; scallops should be opaque but tender.
- Finish with lemon and herbs:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over seared scallops.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley for brightness.
| Action | Ingredient | Heat Level | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry & season scallops | Scallops, salt, pepper | — | — | Ready for searing |
| Heat skillet & fats | Olive oil, butter | Medium-high | Until butter foams | Hot and shimmering pan |
| Sear first side | Scallops | Medium-high | 2-3 minutes | Golden crust |
| Flip & cook second side | Scallops | Medium-high | 1-2 minutes | Tender and opaque |
| Add finishing touches | Lemon juice, parsley | Off heat | Immediate | Bright and fresh flavor |
By following these precise cooking instructions, we guarantee a refined plate where the rich sweetness of seared scallops meets the creamy roasted sweet potatoes, delivering a harmonious and impressive meal.
Assembly and Serving
To bring our Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe to its full flavor and visual potential, careful assembly and thoughtful serving are key. This ensures every bite delivers the perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Plating the Dish
- Start with a base of roasted sweet potatoes arranged in a generous layer on each plate. Their warm golden-orange hue creates a vibrant foundation that looks as good as it tastes.
- Position the seared scallops atop the sweet potatoes, spacing them evenly to showcase their caramelized crusts. This contrast highlights the delicate texture of the scallops against the creamy potatoes.
- Drizzle any pan juices or lemon butter sauce lightly over the scallops and sweet potatoes to enhance moisture and impart a slight tang, ensuring every element is perfectly flavored.
- Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe any spills from the plate edges for a professional, polished look.
“The key to plating this dish is balance: the rich, buttery scallops need the sweetness and earthiness of the potatoes, and both shine with just a touch of fresh acidity.”
Garnishing Tips
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish to add a pop of green color and a fresh herbaceous note.
- Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or a light dusting of smoked paprika for aromatic enhancement and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add extra brightness if desired.
- For a gourmet touch, consider placing a small microgreen salad on the side to introduce crisp texture and additional color contrast.
| Garnish | Purpose | Quantity per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | Adds color/brightness | 1 tablespoon, finely chopped |
| Fresh thyme sprigs | Aromatic and decorative | 1-2 small sprigs |
| Smoked paprika | Adds smoky warmth | Light sprinkle |
| Lemon wedge | Provides acidity and freshness | 1 wedge |
| Microgreens (optional) | Adds texture and visual appeal | Small handful |
Serving this elegant yet comforting Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe with these assembly and garnishing strategies ensures a dish that delights the senses and impresses at any meal occasion.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline our Scallops Sweet Potato Recipe preparation, here are key make-ahead strategies that help maintain freshness and maximize flavors without compromising texture.
Prepare and Roast Sweet Potatoes in Advance
We can peel, cube, and toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasonings up to 24 hours before cooking. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready, spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. This step enhances the sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness and allows us to focus on searing the scallops later.
Dry and Season Scallops Ahead of Time
Patting scallops dry is crucial to get a golden crust. We can lightly season scallops and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before searing. Avoid longer storage to maintain their delicate texture and flavor. Bringing scallops to room temperature 15 minutes prior to cooking ensures even searing.
Butter and Sauce Preparation
Any lemon butter sauce or pan juices enrichment can be made up to 1 hour ahead and gently reheated just before serving. We store it in a small container covered to keep it fresh and ready to drizzle over the plated dish.
| Task | Make-Ahead Time Frame | Storage Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes prepped | Up to 24 hours before roasting | Airtight container, refrigerator |
| Scallops seasoned | Up to 2 hours before cooking | Covered, refrigerator |
| Lemon butter sauce prepared | Up to 1 hour before serving | Covered, reheated gently |
“Prepping key components ahead saves time and lets us focus on perfecting the sear and plating at the last minute — crucial for an impressive and balanced meal.”
Assembly Tip for Make-Ahead Serving
If desired, arrange roasted sweet potatoes on the serving plate ahead and keep covered. Sear scallops just before serving, then place on top and drizzle with warm sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges immediately to retain brightness and color.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure a swift, seamless cooking experience while delivering the rich, creamy, and sweet harmony of scallops paired with roasted sweet potatoes.
Conclusion
This scallops and sweet potato recipe brings together flavors and textures that elevate any meal. It’s a perfect choice when you want something both quick and impressive without sacrificing taste.
With the right ingredients and simple techniques, we can create a dish that feels gourmet yet remains approachable. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a satisfying balance that’s sure to please.
We encourage you to try it out and enjoy the delightful harmony of sweet, savory, and fresh notes on your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the scallops and sweet potatoes recipe?
You need fresh sea scallops, sweet potatoes, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, fresh thyme, olive oil, unsalted butter, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
What equipment is essential to make this dish?
A large skillet for searing scallops, a rimmed baking sheet for roasting sweet potatoes, mixing bowls, a chef’s knife, and tongs are essential for best results.
How do you prepare the sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Wash, peel, and cut sweet potatoes into cubes. Toss with olive oil and seasonings, then roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes until tender.
What is the best way to cook scallops in this recipe?
Pat scallops dry, season them, and sear in a hot skillet with butter and olive oil until they develop a golden crust.
How should the dish be plated for best presentation?
Start with roasted sweet potatoes as the base, place seared scallops on top, drizzle with pan juices or lemon butter sauce, and garnish with parsley, thyme, and lemon wedges.
Can parts of this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be roasted up to 24 hours ahead, scallops dried and seasoned 2 hours prior, and lemon butter sauce made up to 1 hour before serving.
What flavors complement scallops and sweet potatoes in this recipe?
The sweetness of scallops pairs beautifully with the creamy, earthy roasted sweet potatoes, enhanced by smoked paprika, garlic, fresh thyme, and lemon brightness.
Why is drying scallops important before cooking?
Drying scallops ensures they sear properly, creating a golden crust without steaming, which preserves texture and flavor.
What temperature and time are ideal for roasting sweet potatoes?
Roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking and creamy tenderness.
How does lemon juice enhance the final dish?
Lemon juice adds bright acidity that balances the rich sweetness of scallops and creamy roasted sweet potatoes, enhancing overall flavor.