I think I’ve mention before that goat cheese is one of my absolute favorite cheeses. I just love the texture and the tangy-ness of it. Plus, it melts so nicely to make into so many different goat cheese dishes.

Like these crostini’s and this red pepper pasta – which was actually the inspiration for this post. I make the red pepper goat cheese pasta all the time but this time I just wanted to switch it up a little bit.

We had some fresh scallops that the hubby picked up from the store the other day and I figured I would make a nice little pasta to go with them.

For this pasta, I just melted the goat cheese with some heavy cream and mixed in some fresh cut asparagus and a few spices. Then after stirring the sauce into the cooked pasta, quickly flash cook the scallops and add them to the top of the dish.

It’s super simple to make and comes together with just one pan for the sauce and scallops and one pot for cooking the pasta. Very little cleanup is always a plus for me… I’m not a fan of doing the dishes. haha

What is Scallop & Goat Cheese Pasta?

Scallop & Goat Cheese Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the tender texture of sea scallops and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese. The addition of fresh asparagus and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a burst of flavor and color, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, known for its use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The combination of goat cheese and scallops creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh asparagus, garlic, and olive oil, this dish is packed with nutrients and healthy fats.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the pasta with a gluten-free option.

Ingredients

• Pasta: The base of the dish, providing a hearty and satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Asparagus: Adds a vibrant green color and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the goat cheese and cream.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the asparagus and garlic, adding a subtle fruity flavor and helping to meld the ingredients together.
• Garlic: Minced and sautéed to release its aromatic and savory qualities, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a hint of heat, providing a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and tender scallops.
• Goat Cheese: The star of the sauce, offering a tangy and creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: Combines with the goat cheese to create a rich and velvety sauce.
• Sea Scallops: Seared to perfection, adding a delicate and slightly sweet flavor that complements the creamy pasta.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Pasta: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even a gluten-free option.
• Vegetables: You can substitute asparagus with other green vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
• Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try using feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
• Protein: For a different twist, you can replace scallops with shrimp or chicken.

How to Make this Recipe

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of cooking liquid.

Prepare the Asparagus: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Chop asparagus into bite-sized pieces and add to the pan. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, tossing to coat. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until asparagus is cooked through.

Make the Sauce: Add goat cheese and heavy cream to the pan with asparagus. Cook just until the goat cheese is melted and the heavy cream is warmed through, about 4-6 minutes. Pour the mixture over the cooked pasta and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking liquid to reach the desired consistency.

Cook the Scallops: Using the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high. Place scallops in the pan in a single layer, spaced about 1 inch apart. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook scallops for 2 minutes per side without moving, except to flip over.

Serve: Divide the pasta among dishes and top each with 2-3 scallops. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Perfectly Cooked Scallops: Make sure your scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear. Pat them dry with a paper towel and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Creamy Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta cooking liquid to thin it out. This starchy water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta.

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh asparagus and garlic for the best flavor. Frozen or canned vegetables won’t provide the same texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Side Dishes: Serve this pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.

Storage Suggestions

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the scallops just before serving to ensure they stay tender.

What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

Is this dish gluten-free? You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or peas.

This Scallop & Goat Cheese Pasta is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its unique flavor combination and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy a gourmet meal right at home!