Coastal Citrus Melody
Coastal Citrus Melody is a vibrant and refreshing seafood dish that takes inspiration from the sunlit shores of the Mediterranean. This dish blends the zesty brightness of citrus fruits with the fresh flavors of seafood, creating a harmonious melody that dances on your tastebuds. Originating from coastal regions where seafood is abundant, this recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of using fresh ingredients to bring out natural flavors. Perfect for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, Coastal Citrus Melody is a testament to the timeless combination of land and sea.
Ingredients
- Shrimp - 300g, peeled and deveined
- Scallops - 200g
- Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Lemon - 2, juiced and zested
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Orange - 1, juiced
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
- Sea Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Capers - 2 tablespoons, drained
- Red Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
- Avocado - 1, diced
- Arugula - 2 cups
- Cherry Tomatoes - 150g, halved
Preparation
Preparing the Seafood
Start by ensuring your shrimp and scallops are thoroughly cleaned under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Mix the lemon, lime, and orange juices in a bowl, creating a citrus marinade that will infuse the seafood with fresh flavors.
Add the minced garlic, a pinch of sea salt, and black pepper to the citrus mixture. Marinate the shrimp and scallops for about 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Salad Base
As your seafood marinates, prepare your salad base. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped red onion. Add the capers and gently toss to mix the ingredients.
Drizzle olive oil over the salad base, season with sea salt and black pepper to taste, and set aside.
Cooking Process
Sautéing the Seafood
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp and scallops without overcrowding the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
Remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside.
Assembling the Coastal Citrus Melody
On a large serving platter, layer the prepared salad base. Artfully arrange the sautéed shrimp and scallops on top.
Sprinkle the dish with the zest of the lemon and finish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoying the Meal
Coastal Citrus Melody is best enjoyed fresh, with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water. The refreshing citrus notes, combined with the savory taste of seafood, will transport you to a coastal getaway as you savor each bite.
Set a cooking timer to ensure each step is timed perfectly, allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of this delightful dish.