Scallops with Warm Tomato-Basil Dressing

By CBarile

Appetizer

Our Pairing Suggestion Beer These rich, herb-scented scallops need a crisp light beer. Try Left Hand's frothy Polestar Pilsner. Or pour an unoaked Chardonnay.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tomatoes—peeled, seeded and diced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh fennel
• 1 tablespoon chopped chervil or tarragon
• 1 tablespoon finely shredded basil, plus baby leaves for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 16 jumbo sea scallops (about 1 pound)

Details

Servings 4
Preparation time 30mins
Cooking time 30mins

Preparation

Step 1

1. In a saucepan, toast the coriander and fennel seeds over moderate heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes; transfer to a mortar and let cool. Pound until coarsely ground.

2. Warm the 1/4 cup of oil in the same saucepan. Add the spices along with the lemon juice and let stand for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, chopped fennel, chervil and shredded basil; season with salt and pepper.

3. Light a grill or preheat a grill pan. Brush the scallops with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the scallops over high heat, turning once, until browned and just firm, about 4 minutes. Transfer the scallops to plates and spoon the warm tomato dressing on top. Garnish with basil leaves and serve.