Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I took that first bite, I realized I had stumbled upon a savory treasure—plump shrimp and succulent scallops bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce reminiscent of a sun-drenched Italian bistro. This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary escape that turns any ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. With just 20 minutes of prep and a one-pan format, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings when you want something elegant and satisfying without the hassle. Plus, it’s packed with high-quality protein and low in carbs when you skip the pasta, making it a delightful option for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Curious about how to whip up this delicious treat and impress your family or guests? Let’s dive in! Why is this dish a must-try? Simplicity at its peak: This Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops recipe is designed for busy cooks, transforming fresh ingredients into a gourmet meal in just 20 minutes and requiring minimal cleanup. Decadent Flavor: The rich, garlicky cream sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp and scallops, creating an unforgettable taste experience. Versatile Options: Whether served over traditional pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles, it adapts to your dietary preference, making it a perfect choice for any table. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress friends and family with this quick yet elegant dish, ideal for dinner parties or a cozy family meal. Nutritionally Sound: With its high protein count and low-carb potential, this meal invites you to indulge without compromise. If you’re craving more seafood delights, consider trying my Bang Bang Shrimp or check out the flavors of Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Ingredients For the Seafood • Large Shrimp – Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture in your dish. • Sea Scallops – Must be patted dry thoroughly before searing to achieve that perfect golden crust. For the Sauce • Garlic – Freshly minced garlic delivers aromatic depth, elevating the creamy sauce wonderfully. • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and luxurious sauce; consider alternatives for a lighter option, although they may alter creaminess. • Grated Parmesan – Adds a depth of umami and richness; use nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option. For the Vegetables • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Introduce a tangy sweetness; be sure to chop them for even blending in the sauce. • Baby Spinach – Increases nutritional value and adds a beautiful pop of color; you can substitute with kale for a heartier option. For Seasoning and Cooking • Italian Seasoning – A mix of dried herbs that brings balance and enhances the flavors of the dish. • Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing and adding that rich flavor to the overall dish. • Salt and Pepper – Adjust these to taste for perfect seasoning. • Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but they give that spicy kick if you’re craving a little heat in your creamy sauce. Get ready to whip up an unforgettable Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops dish that transports your taste buds straight to Italy! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Step 1: Heat the Oil Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 1–2 minutes until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for cooking. This creates an ideal base for your flavors in the Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops. Step 2: Sauté the Garlic Add 3 minced cloves of garlic to the heated oil and sauté for approximately 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it; you want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden, but not burned, as this will deepen the flavor of your sauce. Step 3: Sear the Scallops Increase the heat to medium-high and gently add 1 pound of sea scallops to the skillet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Use tongs to flip them carefully, showcasing that perfect sear. Step 4: Incorporate the Shrimp Once the scallops are done, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color and are fully cooked. This step melds the seafood flavors nicely in your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops. Step 5: Add Vegetables Next, stir in ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 2 cups of baby spinach. Continue to sauté for about 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and is bright green. This addition not only enhances the dish visually but also enriches the flavor profile. Step 6: Create the Cream Sauce Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, roughly 2–3 minutes. Keep the heat on medium-low to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency without curdling. Step 7: Season to Perfection Season your creamy sauce with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like an extra kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to simmer for another minute, enhancing those flavors throughout your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops. Step 8: Serve Immediately Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your delicious dish immediately. It pairs beautifully over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Enjoy the warmth and richness while savoring this delightful culinary escape to Tuscany! Make Ahead Options These Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and even the heavy cream sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can pat the scallops dry and season them up to 3 days ahead, ensuring they are ready to sear when you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, be sure to keep everything refrigerated, and reheat the sauce gently before serving. When it’s time for dinner, simply sear the scallops and shrimp, add your prepped sauce, and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Pat Dry: Always ensure your scallops are patted dry before cooking; this helps achieve a golden crust instead of a soggy texture. Heat Control: Maintain medium to medium-low heat when making the creamy sauce to prevent curdling and preserve that silky texture. Taste as You Go: Season gradually! Adjust your salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors in your Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops without overpowering the dish. Avoid Freezing: Be mindful not to freeze this dish, as it can affect the delicate texture of the seafood when thawed. Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp; they cook quickly! They should only be in the pan until they turn completely pink for the best results. Storage Tips for Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The freshness of the seafood is key to enjoying the flavors of your Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream to help maintain the sauce’s consistency and richness. Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as it can compromise the seafood’s texture upon thawing. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best experience! Serving Reminder: For the best taste, consume the dish promptly after cooking and refrigerating; this ensures you savor every bite of the creamy garlic bliss. What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Elevate your meal experience by exploring delightful sides that perfectly complement this creamy, savory dish. Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy exterior and soft, buttery center of garlic bread are ideal for mopping up that luxurious creamy sauce. It adds an irresistible touch of comfort to your meal. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve your Tuscan shrimp and scallops over spiralized zucchini. This fresh, light alternative adds a pleasant crunch without overpowering the dish. Buttery Rice Pilaf: This subtly flavored rice pilaf complements the richness of the sauce while absorbing its delectable flavors, creating a harmonious balance on the plate. Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus adds a pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor. It’s a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the creamy sauce, enhancing your dining experience. Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. It brightens up the meal, inviting a balanced palate while adding nutrition. Chardonnay: Pair your dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay. Its crisp, fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the creamy seafood, enhancing your culinary escape to the Mediterranean. Variations & Substitutions for Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Feel free to personalize this delightful dish and create your own spin on the classic flavors! Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter, dairy-free sauce. This variation maintains creaminess with a subtle sweetness. Protein Alternatives: Use chicken breast or tofu instead of seafood for a different protein source. Cook the chicken in the same skillet for a rich infusion of flavors. Zucchini Noodles: Opt for zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb variation that adds great texture and freshness to your dish. Hearty Vegetables: Throw in some roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a colorful, hearty twist. These veggies add extra flavor and nutritional benefits. Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, or incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a herby aroma that elevates the dish. Spice Level: Increase the red pepper flakes or add crushed red pepper for a fiery kick that takes the dish to the next level of deliciousness. Nutty Touch: Stir in a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce. If you’re searching for more ways to enjoy seafood, consider trying my delicious Pineapple Chicken Rice or indulge in the festive flavors of Shrimp Steak Alfredo. The options are endless, so experiment and enjoy! Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops Recipe FAQs How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting large shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a fresh, briny smell. Ideally, they should be peeled and deveined to save time. If you notice any dark spots or a strong fishy odor, those are signs that the shrimp may not be fresh. How can I store leftovers, and how long are they good for? You can store your Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This will help keep the seafood fresh and maintain flavors. Keep in mind that the shrimp and scallops are best enjoyed fresh, so try to finish them within this timeframe for optimal taste! Can I freeze this dish? I recommend avoiding freezing this dish. Freezing the Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops can compromise the delicate texture of the seafood when thawed. However, if you must, portion out the sauce separately and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding fresh shrimp and scallops to maintain quality. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? If your sauce thickens too much during cooking, don’t worry! You can simply add a splash of heavy cream or some broth to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir it in over low heat until it reaches the creamy texture you prefer. It’s all about adjusting to your liking, so feel free to taste as you go. Are there any dietary considerations for allergies or pets? Very! This Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops dish contains shellfish and dairy, which are common allergens. If you have a seafood allergy, you might consider substituting the shrimp and scallops with chicken or tofu. Always avoid sharing with pets, as many seafood and creamy sauces can be heavy on their digestive systems. Safe cooking is happy cooking! Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops in Creamy Garlic Bliss Experience a savory treasure with this Tuscan Shrimp and Scallops dish, a creamy delight perfect for dinner any night. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Seafood1 pound Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined1 pound Sea Scallops Patted dry thoroughlyFor the Sauce3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced1 cup Heavy Cream½ cup Grated ParmesanFor the Vegetables½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped2 cups Baby SpinachFor Seasoning and Cooking1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning2 tablespoons Olive OilSalt To tastePepper To tasteRed Pepper Flakes Optional Equipment Large Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 1–2 minutes until shimmering.Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.Increase heat to medium-high and gently add scallops, searing for about 2 minutes on each side.Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until they turn pink.Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, sautéing for about 1–2 minutes.Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until melted.Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, simmering for another minute.Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesAlways pat the scallops dry before cooking for the best texture. Adjust seasoning gradually and avoid freezing to maintain seafood quality. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
