Meatballs with Scallops in a Pan, with Olives and Capers
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of seasoned meatballs, tender scallops, briny olives, and tangy capers, creating a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect as a main course or served with crusty bread, this meal is quick to prepare and bursting with savory goodness.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup green or black olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Scallops:
- 1/2 lb (225g) large sea scallops
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix gently to combine, ensuring the meat stays tender.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Scallops: In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the scallops.
- Cook the Scallops: Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking, as scallops become rubbery when overdone. Remove the scallops and set aside with the meatballs.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet, if needed. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Add Wine and Seasonings: Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Stir in the olives, capers, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Return Meatballs to the Pan: Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Add Scallops: Gently nestle the seared scallops into the pan, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the scallops through.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Serve this dish with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Over Pasta: Toss the sauce, meatballs, and scallops with spaghetti or linguine for a hearty meal.
- With Vegetables: Pair with roasted zucchini, eggplant, or a crisp green salad for a lighter option.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: When preparing the meatballs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make them dense.
- Perfect Scallops: Ensure the scallops are dry before searing to achieve a golden crust. Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Adjust Salt: Both olives and capers are salty, so be cautious when seasoning the sauce.
This Meatballs with Scallops in a Pan, with Olives and Capers recipe is an elegant yet simple way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table. Its balance of textures and savory, briny notes will make it a family favorite. Bon appétit!
