There is something truly magical about the harmony of flavors in the Scallops with Bacon, Shallot & Pea Purée Recipe. Tender, succulent Alaska Weathervane scallops paired with the smoky, crispy bacon and sweet shallots, all resting atop a vibrant, creamy pea purée with a hint of fresh mint and lemon — it’s an elegant dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests, this recipe effortlessly brings together simple ingredients with bold, balanced flavors that dance on your palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate with four empty scallop shells, which are light orange with natural ridges and textures, placed in the lower left part of the frame. Above the plate is a white bowl full of small white peppercorns, round and evenly packed. To the right of the bowl, there is a bunch of fresh green basil leaves with a glossy and smooth texture. Below the basil is a whole garlic bulb with a creamy outer skin and some cloves visible at the top. In the lower left corner, near the plate, is a small glass container with golden yellow olive oil inside. All items are arranged on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: just a handful of fresh and pantry staples, each playing its own essential role to create a spectacular flavor profile and inviting texture combination. From the briny scallops to the brightness of lemon and mint, here’s what you’ll prepare:

1.25 lbs Alaska Weathervane Scallops: These scallops are large, sweet, and firm—perfect for pan searing to a golden crust.
2 tsp sea salt & 1/4 tsp pepper: Fundamental seasoning to highlight the natural flavors of seafood and accompaniments.
2 cups frozen organic spring peas: Bright green and tender, they form the creamy foundation of your purée.
4 pieces of bacon, cut into 1/3″ pieces: Adds irresistible smoky crunch and depth.
1 medium shallot, sliced: Offers a delicate sweetness and slight sharpness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Lifts and balances the dish with citrusy brightness.
1-2 tablespoon olive oil: For searing scallops and blending into the purée for silkiness.
2 tablespoons mint leaves: Freshness and a subtle herbal note brighten the purée beautifully.

How to Make Scallops with Bacon, Shallot & Pea Purée Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Scallops

Start by defrosting the scallops gently in a bowl of cold water until fully thawed. Pat them completely dry with paper towels—this is key for getting that perfect sear. Then, season generously with sea salt and pepper, allowing the seasoning to enhance their naturally sweet flavor. Set them aside so they’re ready for the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Peas

While the scallops rest, bring a small pot with one cup of water to a rolling boil. Toss in the frozen peas and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes—they’ll turn a beautiful bright green and become tender, the exact texture you want for the purée. Drain them well and keep them warm for the next step.

Step 3: Make the Pea Purée

Into a blender, add one and a half cups of the cooked peas, reserving half a cup for later. Include fresh lemon juice, half a cup of warm water, salt, pepper, and the fresh mint leaves. Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil, then blend everything until smooth and creamy. The purée should be pourable yet rich, creating a luscious base for the scallops to sit on.

Step 4: Cook Bacon and Shallots

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the diced bacon and sliced shallots. Cook for about five minutes, stirring often, until the bacon is just crispy and the shallots soften and caramelize slightly. Just before removing from the pan, stir in the reserved peas to combine all those lovely textures and flavors. Set this mixture aside for plating.

Step 5: Sear the Scallops

In the same skillet, add one to two tablespoons of olive oil to the leftover bacon fat and bring it up to medium-high heat. Add the scallops carefully, giving them plenty of space to sear properly. Cook for around 5 to 6 minutes total, flipping once halfway through. Aim for a gorgeous golden crust on each side while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Step 6: Plate and Assemble

Divide the vibrant pea purée across four plates as the base. Arrange the scallops on top, then spoon the alternating crispy bacon, sweet shallots, and peas mixture generously over everything. The colors and aromas here are a true feast for the senses. For an extra touch, serve with crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce and purée.

How to Serve Scallops with Bacon, Shallot & Pea Purée Recipe

The dish shows four golden-brown seared scallops arranged in a circle on a smooth green sauce spread evenly on a white plate. Some fresh green leaves sit on top and between the scallops, adding a vibrant touch. The green sauce has a creamy texture, almost like a thick puree, and the scallops have a slight char with small grill marks. The background is a white marbled surface, making the colors of the food stand out. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or finely chopped parsley can add a nice green contrast and fresh note that complements the richness of the bacon and scallops. A small lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a little extra brightness as they like.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp mixed green salad, roasted baby potatoes, or even a light citrus-infused quinoa. The key is to keep accompaniments subtle so the scallops and pea purée remain the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, try serving the scallops on individual spoons or small plates arranged on a platter for a stylish appetizer. Alternatively, pipe the pea purée decoratively on plates before layering components to wow your guests visually as well as in taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store the scallops, pea purée, and bacon-shallot mixture separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their individual textures and flavors, making reheating more successful.

Freezing

The pea purée freezes quite well if stored properly in a sealed container or freezer bag, but scallops and bacon are best enjoyed fresh for the optimum texture and taste. If you do freeze the purée, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the pea purée gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Warm the bacon and shallots in a skillet briefly to crisp them up again. For scallops, it’s best to consume immediately after cooking, but if needed, warm quickly over low heat, being careful not to overcook.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?

Absolutely! Fresh peas can provide an even sweeter, fresher flavor. Just boil them until tender and proceed with the recipe as is. Keep in mind cooking times might be slightly shorter.

What kind of bacon works best in this recipe?

A good quality, thick-cut bacon with balanced saltiness and smokiness works best to complement the delicate scallops without overpowering them.

How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked scallops develop a golden crust on each side, with the center remaining slightly translucent and tender inside. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close eye as they sear.

Can I substitute mint with another herb?

Yes, fresh basil or tarragon can be lovely alternatives, lending a different herbal aromatic profile that still pairs well with peas and seafood.

Is this dish suitable for a special occasion?

Definitely! Scallops with Bacon, Shallot & Pea Purée Recipe is elegant enough for celebrations but easy enough to make on a weeknight, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

This Scallops with Bacon, Shallot & Pea Purée Recipe is a gem that brings the best of simple ingredients together in a way that feels truly special every time. The combo of crispy bacon, sweet peas, fragrant mint, and perfectly seared scallops is an absolute delight you will want to make over and over again. Give it a try yourself—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!