Scallops on Spaghetti Nest with Mushroom Sauce

### Instructions: How to Make Scallops on Spaghetti Nest with Mushroom Sauce

#### Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Nest
Start by boiling a pot of salted water for the spaghetti. Once the water is boiling, cook the **spaghetti** according to the package instructions, until it is al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little of the pasta water.

Next, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly drizzle the pasta with **olive oil**. Using tongs or a fork, carefully twist the pasta into a nest shape in the skillet. Let the pasta cook for a few minutes until it gets slightly crispy on the edges, then carefully flip it and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the pasta nest from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. You can use the reserved pasta water to loosen up the nest if it feels too tight.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, begin making the mushroom sauce. In the same skillet, melt **butter** over medium heat. Add the **sliced mushrooms** and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.

Add the **minced garlic** to the mushrooms and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the **white wine**, stirring to deglaze the pan, and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Add the **heavy cream**, **fresh thyme**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Finish with **Parmesan cheese** for extra flavor, if desired. Remove from heat and set aside.

#### Step 3: Sear the Scallops
To sear the scallops, start by patting the **scallops** dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear.

In a separate pan, heat **olive oil** and **butter** over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the scallops in the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent the scallops from searing properly. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden brown crust. Be careful not to overcook them, as scallops cook quickly and can become rubbery. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Dish
To assemble, place the crispy **spaghetti nest** in the center of each plate. Spoon a generous amount of the **mushroom sauce** over the pasta nest, ensuring the mushrooms are evenly distributed.

Carefully arrange the **seared scallops** on top of the mushroom sauce. For a finishing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of **fresh thyme** or **chopped parsley**, and add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, if desired.

### Tips for Perfect Scallops on Spaghetti Nest with Mushroom Sauce

– **Dry the Scallops Thoroughly**: When preparing scallops, it’s essential to pat them dry before cooking. Moisture on the surface of the scallops will prevent them from getting that perfect sear.

– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: When searing scallops, be sure to give each scallop enough space in the pan. Overcrowding will cause them to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable texture.

– **Use Fresh Thyme**: Fresh thyme gives the mushroom sauce a delightful aromatic quality. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works too, but use half the amount.

– **Customize the Pasta**: While this recipe calls for spaghetti, you can easily swap it out for other pasta shapes, such as linguine, fettuccine, or even pappardelle, depending on your preference.

– **Wine Substitute**: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with a bit of vegetable or chicken broth for a slightly different flavor profile.

### Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

**Scallops on Spaghetti Nest with Mushroom Sauce** is not only a beautiful and flavorful dish, but it’s also versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, hosting a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of delicate scallops, savory mushrooms, and the comforting pasta nest makes it a perfect choice for all seasons, from cozy winter evenings to fresh spring and summer nights.

This dish also pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the sweetness of the scallops and the richness of the mushroom sauce.

### Conclusion: A Luxurious Meal in One Plate

This **Scallops on Spaghetti Nest with Mushroom Sauce** is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. From the crispy spaghetti nest to the creamy mushroom sauce and perfectly seared scallops, this meal offers a balance of textures and flavors that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Bon appétit!