Herbed Scallops over Cauliflower Puree

Name: Herbed Scallops over Cauliflower Puree
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love making Herbed Scallops over Cauliflower Puree. This dish perfectly balances the delicate flavors of the scallops with the creamy, rich texture of the cauliflower. Each bite is a burst of flavor, enhanced by the fresh herbs that really bring it to life. It’s an elegant meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. I often serve this for special occasions or when I want to impress my family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:10:28.081Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed by how well the flavors complemented each other. The freshness of the herbs makes the scallops shine, while the cauliflower puree acts as a beautiful canvas. The method of blanching the cauliflower before blending it achieves that ultra-smooth texture that’s so satisfying. I also learned that cooking the scallops at high heat for just a couple of minutes each side captures their natural sweetness perfectly.

Using fresh herbs like dill and parsley enhances the overall flavor profile. I once added a hint of lemon zest, and it brightened up the entire dish. It’s vital not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the scallops; this ensures they sear beautifully rather than steam. Trust me, taking the time to master this technique will elevate your home cooking immensely!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent scallops perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs
Creamy cauliflower puree that’s both light and satisfying
An elegant dish that impresses for any occasion

Mastering the Cauliflower Puree

The key to a silky smooth cauliflower puree lies in the cooking process. Make sure to cut your cauliflower into even-sized florets for consistent cooking. Boiling them for about 8–10 minutes should yield a tender result; check with a fork for doneness. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which can dilute the flavor and texture. If you aim for a richer taste, consider adding roasted garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness during blending.

Using an immersion blender is my preferred method for achieving that luxurious texture. If you don’t have one, a traditional blender works too, but be cautious not to overfill it, as hot ingredients can splatter. Blend until the puree is glossy and has no lumps; you can add a splash of heavy cream if you prefer a silkier consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning; sometimes a little extra salt can elevate the overall flavor significantly.

Perfecting the Scallops

Scallops are delicate and can easily overcook, leading to a rubbery texture. The ideal cooking time is about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat until you see a golden-brown crust form. Ensure your skillet is adequately preheated with hot olive oil before adding the scallops for the perfect sear; they should sizzle immediately. If they stick to the pan, they aren’t ready to turn yet. This caramelization not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful contrast against the creamy cauliflower.

Another tip is to thoroughly dry the scallops before seasoning. Patting them dry ensures that the surface moisture is minimized, allowing for a better sear. If you’re looking for a variation, you can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of citrus-infused olive oil before serving to introduce a hint of smokiness and brightness to balance the dish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation plays a significant role in the enjoyment of this dish. When plating the cauliflower puree, create a little nest in the center, allowing the seared scallops to sit atop it, creating a beautiful contrast between the creamy base and the golden scallops. A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds color but a burst of aromatic flavor. For an elevate presentation, consider using a ring mold to shape the puree for a refined look.

For sides, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette or roasted asparagus could complement the dish nicely without overpowering it. If you want to make it more substantial, a light quinoa tabbouleh could add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbs used in the scallops. This recipe also reheats well, making it great for leftovers; simply warm the scallops gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare this elegant dish:

For the Scallops

8 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cauliflower Puree

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delectable meal:

Prepare the Cauliflower Puree

In a pot of salted boiling water, add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add heavy cream and butter, then blend with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.

Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and just cooked through. Add garlic and herbs in the last minute of cooking.

Serve

Spoon the cauliflower puree onto plates and top with the seared scallops. Garnish with extra herbs if desired and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delightful Herbed Scallops over Cauliflower Puree!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cauliflower puree a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before serving, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. If it thickens too much, add a splash of heavy cream or water to loosen it up. This will give you more time to focus on searing the scallops, ensuring that everything comes together seamlessly at mealtime.

If you want to save time during meal prep, you could also season and sear the scallops in advance, allowing them to cool before storing them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply heat them carefully in a skillet for a minute or two until warmed through, keeping the cooking times just right for that desirable texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, consider substituting the heavy cream in the cauliflower puree with a lower-fat milk or nut milk, like almond or oat milk. While this may alter the creaminess slightly, it still pairs well with the scallops. Additionally, you can substitute the scallops with shrimp or firm white fish, adjusting the cooking time as necessary since these proteins may require less time to cook.

For a gluten-free twist, ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially any pre-packaged items like chicken broth or sauces. You can also enhance flavor by incorporating other fresh herbs like basil or oregano if you're out of parsley and dill; each brings its unique character to the dish while maintaining its fresh charm.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cauliflower puree turns out grainy, it may be due to inadequate blending or not enough moisture. Ensure that you blend thoroughly, adding a bit more cream if necessary. Another common issue is scallops sticking to the pan. Always allow them to sear undisturbed for a couple of minutes before attempting to flip them; if they resist, they’re not ready to be turned.

In the event that your scallops overcook, which makes them rubbery, try cutting them into smaller pieces and incorporating them into a pasta dish or a fresh salad. This way, you can salvage the scallops without compromising the overall dining experience while still enjoying their sweet flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ Can I make the cauliflower puree ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but it may affect the consistency.

→ Are scallops healthy?

Yes, scallops are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy seafood choice.