Delicious Pasta with Homemade Pesto and Seared Scallops

Indulge in a mouthwatering pasta dish loaded with homemade pesto and perfectly seared scallops. This recipe combines the flavors of aromatic basil, garlic, and Parmesan with tender and sweet scallops, creating a delightful combination that will satisfy your cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this impressive dish in no time. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or hosting a dinner party, this pasta with pesto and scallops is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti
• 12 large sea scallops
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the scallops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the pine nuts and toast them over medium heat until lightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse until roughly chopped.
6. While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Continue to blend until the pesto reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the homemade pesto until well coated.
8. Divide the pasta evenly onto plates and top each serving with seared scallops.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

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