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You are here: Home / Recipes / Seafood

Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe (Lemon & Garlic Sauce)

📋 Modified: Feb 3, 2025 Published: Jul 25, 2022 by 👩🏻‍🍳 Jami Powell · This post may contain affiliate links · 💬 13 Comments

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Scallop hunting season in Florida means one thing—fresh bay scallops! If you're looking for the best Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe, this one combines creamy garlic linguine, buttery tender scallops, and a bright lemon basil sauce.

Want more ways to cook scallops? Check out our Panko-Crusted Scallops or Blackened Scallops Caesar Salad.

A hero image of the bay scallop dish with the linguine pasta being twirled around a fork.

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Bay scallops are a species of scallops that are smaller in size and a bit sweeter than your average sea scallop. They are found in salty, shallow-water estuaries along the Gulf Coast. They are full of flavor, take very little time to cook, and make for an effortless weeknight meal.

If you love this seafood recipe, try our our family favorite Creole Seafood Gumbo or our easy Grouper Cheeks recipe.

Jump to:
  • Why We Love This Recipe
  • Bay Scallop Pasta Ingredients
  • Substitutions & Variations
  • How to Make this Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe
  • Expert Tips for Success
  • Storage
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Seafood Recipes You'll Love ♥️
  • 📖 Recipe
  • 💬 Share Your Thoughts

Why We Love This Recipe

  • Nostalgic: Scallop season in Florida means boat trips, fresh catches, and special memories.
  • Flavorful: Sweet, tender scallops pair perfectly with linguine and a light lemon garlic sauce.
  • Romantic: A simple yet elegant dish. For similar recipes, try our Spaghetti Nero di Seppia with Clams or our Shrimp Scampi without Wine.

Bay Scallop Pasta Ingredients

Let's get cooking! Here is our step-by-step guide to get you started.

A labeled photo of all the ingredients needed to make this bay scallop recipe.
  • Scallops: We’re using bay scallops because they’re sweet, tender, and cook in minutes. If you can get them fresh off the boat, even better! Choose dry-packed scallops with a fresh, ocean-like scent. Avoid those treated with preservatives, as they won’t sear properly.
  • Linguine: A little thicker than spaghetti, it holds onto the garlic butter sauce beautifully. Have extra? Try it in Pasta Carbonara with Prosciutto and Peas.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Go for Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it fresh—it melts better and adds a nutty, rich flavor.
  • Garlic: Use fresh minced garlic cloves for the best aroma and flavor. Pre-chopped garlic just doesn’t compare.
  • White Wine: A good dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc adds depth. Skip the cheap cooking wines—they won’t do this dish justice.
  • Lemon: The juice of half a lemon and a little zest bring a bright, fresh touch. Add extra if you love a citrusy kick!

A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

  • Scallops: If bay scallops are not available in your area, large sea scallops can be used if you adjust the cooking time. You could also create a shrimp recipe by substituting simple shrimp.
  • Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair pasta would make a great substitute for linguine.
  • Wine: No white wine? Use a little chicken broth or chicken stock instead.
  • Flavor and Texture: Add red pepper flakes for spice or breadcrumbs for texture.

How to Make this Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe

Here is everything you'll need to make this dish:

Process shot one is boiling the pasta.

STEP 1: Prepare the Linguine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Process shot 2 is patting the bay scallops dry with a paper towel.

STEP 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Process shot 3 is searing the bay scallops.

STEP 3: Searing the Scallops and Build the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and opaque, then set aside.

Lower heat to medium, melt butter, and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

Process shot 3 is topping the dish with parmesan cheese.

STEP FOUR: Combine and Serve

Stir in lemon juice, red pepper flakes, butter, and Parmesan until melted and combined. Toss in the linguine, adding pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Return the scallops to the skillet and mix gently over low heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Garnish with fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Success

👩‍🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level?

✔️ DO Pat scallops dry for the perfect sear.
✔️ DO Save pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
❌ DON'T Overcook scallops—they become rubbery fast!
❌ DON'T Use pre-shredded Parmesan—it won’t melt smoothly.

Storage

Store leftover bay scallop pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dish is not freezer-friendly. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of butter or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Recipe FAQs

What is the difference between a bay scallop and a sea scallop?

Bay scallops are much smaller in size and many people consider them to be sweeter in flavor. They do not take as long to cook and are common in ceviche or served au gratin.

How do you catch bay scallops?

Most people use a snorkel, mask, and fins to go after this swimming mollusk. They have 30-40 bright blue eyes that can detect movement, so you have to be quick. It's best to carry a small mesh bag to collect them. Once captured, put them over ice immediately.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by opting for gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat-based pasta. There are various gluten-free pasta options available in stores, made from ingredients like rice, corn, quinoa, or chickpeas. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions provided.

A feature image of the scallop recipe with the linguine being twirled around a fork.

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  • Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Rating if think this scallop pasta is amazing!

📖 Recipe

A feature image of the scallop recipe with the linguine being twirled around a fork.

Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe (Lemon & Garlic Sauce)

Jami Powell
Scallop hunting season in Florida means one thing—fresh bay scallops! If you're looking for the best Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe, this one combines creamy garlic linguine, buttery tender scallops, and a bright lemon basil sauce. See the featured image below to preview this delicious dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Seafood
Servings 2
Calories 863 kcal

Equipment

  • Cast iron or any large skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Colander
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Citrus squeezer

Ingredients
  

  • ½ pound scallops
  • ½ pound linguine
  • ½ cup parmesan freshly grated
  • 6-8 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoon butter
  • ½ lemon juice of
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Garnish

  • 2-3 leaves fresh basil chiffonade
  • lemon wedges and zest

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a portion of the pasta water.
  • Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove scallops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate.
  • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons of butter, and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
  • Add the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, 2 more tablespoons of butter, and the freshly grated Parmesan. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
  • Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
  • Gently place the seared scallops back into the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Toss everything together over low heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

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Notes

Storage Store leftover bay scallop pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freeze This dish is not freezer-friendly.
Reheat  To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of butter or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Substitutions
  • Scallops: If bay scallops are not available in your area, large sea scallops can be used if you adjust the cooking time. You could also create a shrimp recipe by substituting simple shrimp.
  • Pasta: Spaghetti or angel hair pasta would make a great substitute for linguine.
  • Wine: No white wine? Use a little chicken broth or chicken stock instead.
Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.
Nutrition information is only an estimate

Nutrition

Calories: 863kcalCarbohydrates: 119gProtein: 39gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 44mgSodium: 2.532mgPotassium: 626mgFiber: 5gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 306IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 419mgIron: 3mg
Did you make this recipe?Tag @powell.family.cooking on Instagram

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Comments

  1. Jami Powell says

    February 12, 2025 at 3:33 am

    5 stars
    Our family loves this recipe!

    Reply
  2. Kari says

    October 08, 2024 at 4:13 pm

    This looks great! But the amount of lemon to use isn’t clear- can you clarify?

    Reply
    • Jami Powell says

      October 09, 2024 at 5:57 pm

      Hi Kari, thank you! This would be about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

      Reply
  3. Susie says

    August 20, 2024 at 8:48 pm

    5 stars
    I was looking for a scallop recipe that didn’t have cream or half and half in it. Found yours , made it…delicious!! I’m making it again tomorrow night for company. It’s a winner!

    Reply
  4. Donna says

    July 31, 2024 at 11:27 pm

    5 stars
    Made this tonight and it was delicious!

    Reply
    • Jami Powell says

      August 01, 2024 at 7:41 pm

      Great to hear, Donna! Thank you! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Ali says

    July 20, 2024 at 1:44 am

    5 stars
    Made tonight. Delicious and easy.

    Reply
    • Jami Powell says

      July 21, 2024 at 7:46 pm

      Good to hear, Ali. Thank you!

      Reply
  6. Jill Grzeika says

    August 22, 2023 at 11:10 pm

    5 stars
    This was incredibly good! The instructions did not tell you how to use the olive oil, but I assume you sear the scallops in it, so that is what I did. We loved every bite. I did cut the salt in half, so that we could season it with more salt if needed. Highly recommend this to anyone!!!

    Reply
    • Jami Powell says

      August 26, 2023 at 2:35 pm

      Hi Jill! Thank you for the lovely compliment, and thank you for bringing this to my attention! I will edit the post now. 😊

      Reply
  7. Colleen says

    July 20, 2023 at 11:39 pm

    5 stars
    Made this delicious dish this evening. Added a side of fresh peaches and raspberries. It was the perfect lite elegant meal for a hot summer day. Thank you for creating this outstanding seafood recipe.

    Reply
    • Jami Powell says

      July 21, 2023 at 12:22 pm

      Thank you, Colleen. I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply
  8. Jami Powell says

    July 19, 2023 at 4:31 am

    Hi Michelle. Thank you for the thoughtful comment. I’m glad you liked the flavor! You make a good point about the parmesan. I grated it right off the block and it was light and fluffy when I filled the cup. I’ll weigh it and adjust accordingly. Thanks again!

    Reply
4.22 from 46 votes (40 ratings without comment)

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