If you are looking for a dish that balances silky, sweet, and savory flavors with a touch of elegance, this Creamed Corn with Seared Scallops and Pea Shoots Recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Imagine the rich creaminess of fresh corn cooked to perfection, complemented by beautifully caramelized scallops, and topped off with fresh, peppery pea shoots. Each bite delivers a luxurious texture and a wonderful harmony of flavors that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a weeknight, this recipe promises to wow your taste buds with simple, classic ingredients coming together in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this dish, and each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this Creamed Corn with Seared Scallops and Pea Shoots Recipe so irresistible. From the sweet crunch of corn kernels to the aromatic burst of fresh tarragon, every element has been thoughtfully chosen to elevate the dish.
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to bring out depth and richness when infusing with capers.
- Crushed capers: They add a subtle briny tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the corn.
- Corn ears: Fresh ears are best for their natural sweetness and tender kernels.
- Shallots: Finely chopped to lend a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic cloves: Adds aromatic warmth and a savory background note.
- Vermouth: This splash of fortified wine brightens and deglazes, enhancing the complexity.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious and creamy texture that clings to every kernel.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh tarragon leaves: Brings a fresh, slightly anise-like flavor that complements both corn and scallops.
- Large sea scallops: The star protein, which sears beautifully to a golden crust while staying tender inside.
- Vegetable oil: Used for high-heat searing to get that perfect caramelization on the scallops.
- Pea shoots: Bright and crunchy, they add fresh green color and a lovely subtle sweetness as garnish.
How to Make Creamed Corn with Seared Scallops and Pea Shoots Recipe
Step 1: Infuse the olive oil
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the crushed capers and let them gently infuse the oil, releasing their briny flavors. This simple infusion creates a flavorful base that will subtly enhance the entire dish.
Step 2: Carefully remove the corn kernels
Using a clever trick, place a small bowl upside down inside a larger bowl. Set the corn on top of the smaller bowl and slice downwards to remove kernels. This method captures not just the delicious kernels but also the sweet corn juice, which is packed with flavor and moisture to enrich the cream sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the aromatics
Finely chop the shallots, garlic, and fresh tarragon. These ingredients will add important depth and freshness to the creamed corn, so take a moment to get them ready for sautéing.
Step 4: Brown the corn
Add the corn kernels and their collected juice to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they just start to brown. This light caramelization brings out the natural sweetness and adds a touch of nuttiness that is essential for a rich creamed corn.
Step 5: Add shallots and garlic
Stir in the chopped shallots and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes. The aromatics will soften and blend with the corn, creating an irresistible fragrant base for your sauce.
Step 6: Deglaze with vermouth
Pour in the vermouth, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift all those flavorful bits stuck on the bottom. This addition introduces a subtle fruity acidity that balances the creaminess to come.
Step 7: Stir in the cream
Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together, allowing the mixture to combine and start thickening into the luscious sauce that envelops each corn kernel.
Step 8: Season and thicken
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir the creamed corn for about 10 minutes until it thickens beautifully to a smooth, velvety consistency.
Step 9: Add fresh tarragon and simmer
Fold in the chopped tarragon leaves and allow the mixture to simmer gently on low heat for a few more minutes. The tarragon introduces a fresh and slightly herbal note that ties the whole sauce together with elegance.
Step 10: Prepare to sear the scallops
While your creamed corn simmers, heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. A hot pan is essential to achieve the caramelized crust that makes these scallops so special.
Step 11: Season the scallops
Pat your sea scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides simply with salt and pepper to keep the seafood flavor shining through.
Step 12: Sear the scallops
Add a light coating of vegetable oil to the hot skillet and arrange the scallops without crowding them. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2 minutes until each is a dark golden brown and beautifully caramelized.
Step 13: Serve with pea shoots garnish
Once everything is ready, spoon the rich creamed corn onto plates and top with the seared scallops. Garnish generously with fresh pea shoots, adding a crisp, bright contrast to the creamy and tender main elements.
How to Serve Creamed Corn with Seared Scallops and Pea Shoots Recipe
Garnishes
Adding pea shoots is a perfect touch, bringing vibrant green color and a mild sweetness that complements the dish’s creamy texture and the scallops’ savory richness. You might also consider a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or a light drizzle of lemon oil to elevate freshness even more.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best when paired with light and simple sides that won’t overpower its delicate balance. Try a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted asparagus for a slightly earthy counterpoint. A crusty baguette is fantastic too, perfect for soaking up every last delicious drop of creamed corn sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the creamed corn in small individual ramekins topped with scallops and pea shoots right before plating. Alternatively, create a colorful layered plate by placing scallops atop a scoop of creamed corn, then artfully arrange pea shoots around the edges for a restaurant-quality visual feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamed corn with scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because scallops are delicate, it’s best to store the corn separately from the scallops to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
While the creamed corn can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to one month, scallops generally do not freeze well after cooking. For best results, freeze the corn and prepare fresh scallops when ready to serve.
Reheating
Gently reheat the creamed corn on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Reheat the scallops briefly in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side to revive their caramelized exterior without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for this recipe?
While fresh corn provides the best natural sweetness and texture, frozen corn can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it fully and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid a watery sauce.
What if I don’t have vermouth on hand?
If vermouth is unavailable, dry white wine or a mild sherry makes a great substitute. These options provide a similar depth and brightness without overpowering the other flavors.
How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops are done when they develop a golden brown crust on each side and feel firm but still slightly springy to the touch. Overcooking can make them tough, so timing and heat control are key.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the scallops with seared plant-based chicken tenders or grilled mushrooms, which bring a nice texture and umami flavor complementing the creamed corn and pea shoots.
What are pea shoots, and where can I find them?
Pea shoots are the young, tender leaves and stems of the pea plant, offering a fresh, subtly sweet flavor with a hint of pea essence. They can be found in most farmers markets, well-stocked grocery stores, or Asian markets.
Final Thoughts
This Creamed Corn with Seared Scallops and Pea Shoots Recipe is truly a celebration of summer’s bounty combined with the delicate luxury of perfectly cooked scallops. Its creamy texture, bright herbal notes, and beautiful presentation make it a dish you will want to revisit again and again. I encourage you to try making it—it’s a wonderful way to impress guests or simply indulge in a meal that feels both comforting and special. Once you master this recipe, it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your culinary repertoire.
