This sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dish features a harmonious blend of lemon, garlic, tender pasta, and succulent seafood enrobed in a luscious sauce, making each bite is an exquisite experience.

Ingredients

For the Seafood

• 8 large sea scallops
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 8 oz of whole-wheat spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

1. Pat the scallops and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the scallops.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large pan over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add red pepper flakes if using.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce. If necessary, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing thoroughly.
2. Gently add the seared scallops and shrimp to the pasta, combining everything together.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest and parsley if desired.