Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce

Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of scallops with a tangy lemon mustard sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes that often feature seafood and citrus flavors. The combination of scallops, lemon, and mustard creates a unique and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the rigatoni pasta.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) rigatoni
2 cups white wine
1 tbsp grated lemon peel
1 lb (454 g) bay scallops
4 tsp spicy mustard
0.25 cup chilled and divided butter
1 tbsp chopped chives
1 tsp salt
2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Prepare the pasta according to the package directions, then drain well.
In a large skillet, bring the wine and lemon peel to a simmer, then add the scallops and cook for 1 minute.
Remove the scallops from the pan, then increase the heat and boil the wine for 5 minutes.
Whisk in the mustard, then add the butter one tablespoon at a time.
Add the scallops and pasta, and heat thoroughly.
Sprinkle with chopped chives, salt, and pepper to taste, and serve.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or lobster for the scallops.
Add diced tomatoes or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the scallops quickly to avoid overcooking and becoming tough.

- Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor in the sauce.

- Make sure to whisk in the butter slowly to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete and elegant meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the scallops quickly over high heat to avoid overcooking.

- Whisk in the butter slowly to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu instead of scallops for a vegetarian option.

- Substitute Dijon mustard for the spicy mustard for a milder flavor.

- Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

- Cook the pasta al dente and store separately from the sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional lemon zest and chives for a pop of color. - Serve the pasta in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. - Pair with a crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- A side of garlic bread or a green salad would complement the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C from the lemon and chives, as well as iron and zinc from the scallops.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (scallops) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party. With a tangy lemon mustard sauce and tender scallops, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a quaint little farmer's market in the heart of the city. As I wandered through the stalls, taking in the vibrant colors and enticing smells, I came across a stand selling the most beautiful scallops I had ever seen.

The friendly vendor, a weathered old man with a twinkle in his eye, told me that these scallops were freshly caught that morning and were perfect for pairing with pasta. Intrigued, I asked him if he had a recipe in mind. He chuckled and said that he had just the thing.

He handed me a faded index card with handwritten instructions for Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce. The recipe seemed simple enough, but I could tell that it was a labor of love. The combination of tender scallops, al dente rigatoni, and tangy lemon mustard sauce sounded like a match made in culinary heaven.

Excited to try my hand at this new dish, I hurried home to gather the ingredients. I carefully followed the instructions, savoring the aroma of garlic and shallots as they sizzled in the pan. The scallops cooked quickly, their delicate flesh turning a golden brown as they caramelized in the heat.

I added a splash of white wine, a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a dollop of Dijon mustard to the pan, creating a sauce that was both silky and zesty. The rigatoni, cooked to perfection, was tossed in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors and textures of the dish.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to another world. The sweetness of the scallops, the brightness of the lemon, and the richness of the mustard melded together in perfect harmony. It was a dish that was both comforting and elegant, a true celebration of the sea.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I hosted a dinner party that weekend, serving Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce as the main course. The dish was met with rave reviews, with everyone asking for seconds and begging for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time adding my own twist to the original recipe. Sometimes I use fresh herbs from my garden, other times I experiment with different types of pasta. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, Rigatoni with Scallops and Lemon Mustard Sauce remains a staple in my kitchen.

I often think back to that fateful day at the farmer's market, when I stumbled upon this recipe that has since become a beloved favorite. It serves as a reminder that inspiration can come from the most unexpected of places, and that the joy of cooking lies in the journey of discovery.

So here's to good food, good company, and the simple pleasures of a well-cooked meal. May this recipe bring as much joy to you as it has brought to me. Bon appétit!