Seared Scallops With Quinoa and Apple Salad

Ingredients

• 12 large sea scallops
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 Granny Smith apple, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for searing

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook quinoa in water according to package instructions. Let cool.
   Whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced apple, red onion, parsley, and walnuts.

3. Toss the quinoa mixture with the dressing. Set aside.

4. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until smoking.

6. Add scallops and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.

7. Add butter to the pan and baste scallops for an additional 30 seconds.

8. Divide quinoa salad among plates and top with seared scallops.

9. Drizzle with any remaining pan juices.

10. Serve immediately.

Savor the first bite of these Seared Scallops With Quinoa and Apple Salad and let your taste buds revel in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures! The caramelized scallops, with their golden crust and tender center, perfectly complement the nutty quinoa and crisp, tangy apple salad. It’s a culinary duet that sings of sophistication and simplicity, bringing together the best of land and sea. Whether you’re preparing a special date night dinner or elevating your weeknight meal game, this dish promises to impress with its elegant presentation and delightful taste. So heat up that skillet, chop those apples, and get ready to create a plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious – bon appétit!