Nothing says “I have my life together” like pan-seared scallops followed by a coffee tart. These delicate, buttery scallops develop a perfect golden crust, while the rich espresso tart delivers a bittersweet punch. Who needs predictable flavors when you can have seafood and coffee in one meal? This recipe is for those who refuse to pick between savory elegance and sweet indulgence. Whether you’re impressing guests or just flexing your culinary skills, this surf-and-sip pairing guarantees raised eyebrows and satisfied taste buds. Brace yourself—this is dinner and dessert with an attitude.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Coffee Tart
Crispy, golden scallops meet a decadent coffee-infused tart, proving that sophistication and caffeine addiction can, in fact, coexist.
Ingredients
For the Pan-Seared Scallops:
- Large sea scallops – 12 patted dry
- Butter – 3 tbsp because scallops love it
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp for extra crispiness
- Garlic – 2 cloves minced
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp freshly squeezed
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Fresh parsley – 1 tbsp chopped
For the Coffee Tart:
- All-purpose flour – 1 ¼ cups
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup cold, cubed
- Granulated sugar – ¼ cup
- Egg yolk – 1
- Heavy cream – ½ cup
- Dark chocolate – ½ cup chopped
- Espresso powder – 1 tbsp
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- Eggs – 2 beaten
Instructions
For the Pan-Seared Scallops:
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season scallops with salt and black pepper.
- Sear scallops for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat and add butter and garlic, basting the scallops for flavor.
- Squeeze in lemon juice, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
For the Coffee Tart:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour, sugar, and butter in a bowl until crumbly.
- Add egg yolk, mix, and press dough into a tart pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Heat heavy cream, pour over dark chocolate, and stir until smooth.
- Mix in espresso powder, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs.
- Pour filling into the tart shell and bake for 15 minutes.
- Let cool before slicing (if you have the patience).
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
Calories: 520Total Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin B12 – 35%
- Iron – 15%
- Calcium – 10%
- Magnesium – 12%
- Potassium – 18%
Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor for the Recipe
- Use dry-packed scallops for better searing (wet ones just steam).
- A pinch of cinnamon in the tart adds a warm twist.
- Garnish with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.
- Serve with a glass of wine—because you deserve it.
