
Pan Seared Scallops with Cauliflower Puree
4-6
20 minutes
20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Purée
- 1 medium head purple (or white) cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 3–4 tbsps heavy cream, 5% (or light stock)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Basil–Avocado Oil
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup avocado oil (light or refined)
- Pinch of salt
For the Scallops
- 8–12 large sea scallops, shucked (reserve curved bottom shells for presentation)
- Kosher salt and black pepper, for seasoning
- Neutral oil, for searing
For the Corn–Pancetta Topping
- 2 oz (60g) pancetta, diced
- ½ cup fresh corn kernels (from 1 medium ear)
Garnish
- Basil leaves or microgreens
- Edible flowers (optional)
- Lemon zest
Featured Products
- CopperBond 12.5” Skillet
- CopperBond 3QT Saucepan
- CopperBond 1.5QT Saucepan
- CopperBond 8.5” Skillet
- OvenBond Quarter Sheet Pan
- Provisions Stainless Steel 3QT Steamer Insert
Directions
Prepare the Basil–Avocado Oil
- Blanch basil leaves in boiling water for 5–10 seconds, then shock in ice water.
- In a blender, blend the basil with avocado oil and a pinch of salt until smooth and bright green.
- Strain if desired and set aside.
Prepare the Cauliflower Purée
- Steam cauliflower florets until tender, 8–10 minutes.
- Blend in a food processor with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until silky. Keep warm.
Cook the Corn–Pancetta Topping
- In an 8" skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until beginning to crisp.
- Add corn and sauté 2–3 minutes until just tender and lightly caramelized.
- Drain excess fat on a paper towel and set aside.
Sear the Scallops
- Pat scallops very dry and season with salt and pepper, just before searing.
- Heat a large skillet with a thin layer of neutral oil over high heat until just smoking.
- Sear in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the scallops 1½–2 minutes (without moving them) per side until golden brown with a slightly translucent center.
Assemble in half Shells
- Arrange shells on a tray of uncooked black rice or coarse sea salt to keep them steady.
- Spoon a layer of cauliflower purée into each half shell.
- Place a seared scallop on top.
- Drizzle with basil–avocado oil.
- Add corn–pancetta topping.
- Garnish with basil or microgreens, lemon zest, and edible flowers if using.