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Coquilles Saint-Jacques

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Coquilles Saint-Jacques is a classic French seafood dish featuring tender sea scallops seared until golden and served in a rich buttery cream sauce with Dijon mustard, shallots, and garlic. Elegant yet simple, this restaurant-quality meal is perfect for date nights, holiday dinners, or special occasions.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot, finely minced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup seafood broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the sea scallops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt until slightly foamy.
  3. Add the scallops to the skillet, leaving space between each one. Sear for about 2 minutes on the first side without moving them.
  4. Flip the scallops and cook another 2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and the centers are just opaque.
  5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and transfer them to a plate to keep warm.
  6. In the same skillet, add the minced shallot and garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until softened and fragrant.
  7. Pour in the seafood broth and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  8. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Warm for about 1 minute without overcooking.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add sliced mushrooms for extra earthy flavor.
  • Fresh chives or tarragon can replace parsley for a traditional French touch.
  • Vegetable broth may be substituted for seafood broth.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness before serving.
  • For a gratin-style finish, sprinkle grated cheese on top and broil briefly.
  • Serve over pasta, risotto, mashed potatoes, or rice for a heartier meal.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the sauce may separate.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/coquilles-saint-jacques/