Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti with Jumbo Scallops (mantitlement)

2 lbs jumbo scallops
Kosher salt and fresh black pepper for seasoning the scallops
4 T butter, divided
2 T olive oil
1/2 c diced onion
3 cloves garlic, chopped
3/4 c white wine
1 1/2 c chicken broth
3/4 c heavy cream
1 T cornstarch mixed with 1 T water
2 c fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
7 oz jar sliced sun dried tomatoes, drained
1 lb spaghetti
fresh black pepper for garnish
chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cook spaghetti according to package directions and drain. Add 2 T butter together with olive oil in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper generously on both sides, then add to skillet. Cook scallops on one side for 3 – 4 min until they form a brown crust. If the scallops are sticking to the pan they aren’t ready to turn yet, just give them another minute or 2. Turn scallops over and cook for 3 – 4 min until browned. Remove scallops to a plate and cover with foil. Melt remaining 2 T butter in skillet, add onions and cook for 5 min until softened. Add garlic, stir and cook for 1 min longer, and pour in white wine to deglaze pan. Let wine cook down until it is reduced by half (about 2 min) then pour in chicken broth and cream and bring to a simmer. Mix cornstarch and water together and pour into simmering sauce. Whisk sauce and bring back to a simmer, cooking for 5 min until sauce is reduced and thickened. Add spinach and sun dried tomatoes, stirring spinach into sauce to wilt. Season with more salt and pepper to taste if needed. Place scallops back into sauce, turning to coat. Cover skillet and simmer sauce for 5 min, then remove scallops and place back on the plate, covered. Toss sauce with spaghetti and add to a serving bowl. Place the scallops on top or add to individual bowls when serving. Garnish with fresh black pepper and chopped parsley if desired. If your skillet is on the smaller side, you can put cooked spaghetti in a large bowl and then pour sauce and scallops over the top and toss.

Tagged: One Dish Meals, Pasta, Seafood