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There’s nothing quite like the sound of scallops sizzling in a hot pan to bring a sense of excitement into my kitchen. I discovered this delightful recipe for Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée during a particularly chilly evening when I wanted something comforting yet elegant. The moment the golden sear hits the scallops, the aroma of butter melds with the sweet, earthy scent of roasted butternut squash, creating a cozy atmosphere that brightens any day.

What I love about this dish is its blend of flavors and textures—crispy scallops paired with a creamy, velvety purée makes for a plate that looks as stunning as it tastes. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day while still impressing family or guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone looking to elevate dinner, this recipe is a perfect addition to your collection. Come join me as we create this restaurant-worthy meal right at home!

Why love Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée?

Deliciously Elegant: The combination of seared scallops and creamy butternut squash purée brings a restaurant-quality experience to your home kitchen.

Effortless Cooking: This recipe is simple enough for beginners, requiring only a few skills to achieve a gourmet result.

Flavor Explosion: The layers of buttery goodness, with hints of lemon and capers, create a symphony of taste on your palate.

Impressive Presentation: Serving this dish makes you look like a pro, turning any meal into a special occasion.

Warm Comfort: It’s perfect for cozy nights when you want something that feels both nurturing and indulgent—ideal for impressing loved ones or treating yourself!

Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée Ingredients

• Get ready to savor every bite!

For the Scallops

8 large scallops – make sure they’re dry for a perfect sear!
4 tablespoons butter, divided – using high-quality butter will enhance the flavor.
1 clove garlic, minced – it adds a lovely aromatic depth to the sauce.
1-2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot – shallots offer a milder onion flavor that complements well.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – a touch of acidity will enhance the overall taste.
1 tablespoon capers, drained – these little bursts of briny flavor elevate the dish.

For the Butternut Squash Purée

1 small butternut squash – this sweet veggie serves as the creamy base for the scallops.
Sautéed mushrooms (optional) – for those who want an earthy richness to complement the dish.

This recipe for Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée is not only a feast for the senses but also a canvas for your culinary creativity. Enjoy crafting this spectacular meal!

How to Make Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This will set the perfect stage for roasting your butternut squash.
Prepare the squash: Peel the squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes. On a foil-lined sheet pan, toss the squash cubes with olive oil and season with salt. Cover with foil and roast until tender, about 50 to 60 minutes.
Purée the squash: Once roasted, transfer the squash to a blender and purée until smooth. For an ultra-creamy texture, push the purée through a fine-mesh strainer. Place in a pot with a lid to keep warm.
Sear the scallops: Pat the scallops dry and sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy skillet over high heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the scallops and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic and shallot; cook until the butter begins to turn golden brown, taking care not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and capers.
Plate and serve: If needed, reheat the butternut purée in the pot. Dollop the purée on a plate and use a spoon to create a smooth base for the scallops. Place the scallops on top and spoon the brown butter sauce over them for that finishing touch.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the luxurious flavors of your scallops.

Crispy Garlic Bread: Its crunchy texture and buttery, garlicky aroma provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy purée and seared scallops. Perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce!
Light Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, enhancing the richness of the dish while balancing flavors beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, roasted asparagus complements the buttery scallops wonderfully, adding a pop of vibrant color to your plate.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and diced vegetables lends a nutty flavor and hearty texture that wonderfully bridges the dish’s elegance and comfort.
White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay can enhance the overall dining experience, working well to cut through the butter sauce while accentuating the seafood’s sweetness.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a decadent finish, making the meal feel indulgent while its airy texture contrasts nicely with the main dish’s heartiness.

Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée Variations

Get ready to customize this marvelous dish and take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter for a lighter, dairy-free alternative. The flavor will still shine through beautifully.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter while it cooks for a fragrant twist. This adds depth and enhances the dish’s overall aroma.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the butter sauce. It balances the sweetness of the purée with exciting warmth.
Different Purée: Try swapping butternut squash with sweet potato or cauliflower for a unique flavor profile and a slightly different texture.
Crispy Topping: Top your scallops and purée with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. This contrast makes every bite more enticing.
Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime or orange juice in place of lemon for a refreshing citrusy zing. This brightens the dish and gives it a whole new personality.
Nutty Flavor: Add a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil to the butter sauce for a nutty depth that complements the scallops marvelously.
Garnish Variations: Instead of herbs, try adding a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of elegance that enhances both presentation and taste.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own perfect rendition of Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée!

Storage Tips for Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée

Fridge: Store leftover seared scallops with butternut squash purée in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the butternut squash purée in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Keep scallops separate for better texture once thawed.

Reheating: Reheat the scallops gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, and warm the purée in a pot on low. Avoid high heat to keep scallops tender and juicy.

Airtight Storage: Ensure all containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn and flavor loss.

Make Ahead Options

These Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the butternut squash purée up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the purée fresh and ready to reheat when you’re set to enjoy your meal. Additionally, you can pat and season the scallops up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring a quick sear when you’re ready to cook. For the best quality, refrigerate and cover the scallops tightly. When ready to serve, simply reheat the purée on low heat while you sear the scallops, and you’ll have a stunning dish with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée

Choose Fresh Scallops: Use the freshest scallops you can find; they should smell like the ocean, not fishy. Fresh scallops will yield a sweeter taste.
Perfectly Pat Dry: Ensure that you pat the scallops dry before searing. Moisture will prevent a good sear, making them less crispy.
Heat Management: Use high heat to get that golden, caramelized crust on your scallops. If the butter is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning.
Careful with Garlic: When making the brown butter sauce, watch the garlic closely! Overcooked garlic can turn bitter quickly, impacting the whole seared scallops with butternut squash purée dish.
Adjust Consistency: If your butternut squash purée feels too thick, add a touch of cream or chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish Wisely: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chives or parsley, right before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.

Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Purée Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that is firm with smooth, unblemished skin. A ripe squash should feel heavy for its size and have a deep, uniform beige color. Avoid any squash with dark spots or soft spots, as these indicate overripeness.

How should I store leftover seared scallops and butternut squash purée?
For the best freshness, store leftover seared scallops with butternut squash purée in an airtight container. The scallops will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the butternut squash purée in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Always keep scallops separate for better texture when reheating.

What’s the best method for reheating my leftovers?
I recommend reheating the scallops gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through. For the butternut squash purée, place it in a pot on low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Avoid high heat as it may make the scallops tough.

Can I freeze seared scallops?
Yes, but freezing can affect their texture! If you plan to freeze seared scallops, let them cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Ideally, use them within 1-2 months for the best quality.

What should I do if my scallops aren’t browning properly?
Very! If your scallops aren’t browning, make sure they are patted dry before cooking—moisture is the enemy of a perfect sear. Also, ensure your skillet is preheated adequately before placing the scallops in. If the scallops are overcrowded in the pan, it might cause them to steam instead of sear, so cook in batches if necessary.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, avoid using scallops altogether, as they can trigger severe reactions. Also, if you’re concerned about gluten, all the ingredients listed in this recipe are gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative—just be mindful of the cooking temperature to prevent burning.