Seared Cod & Scallops with Garlic Butter Veggies

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### 🔥 How to Make It

#### 1. **Prep the Seafood**
– Pat cod and scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
– Season both with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika if using.

#### 2. **Sear the Cod**
– Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky.
– Remove and keep warm on a plate.

#### 3. **Sear the Scallops**
– In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
– Place scallops in the pan, making sure they don’t touch.
– Sear for 1.5–2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Don’t move them while they’re searing!

#### 4. **Sauté the Veggies**
– In another skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
– Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
– Toss in the zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli.
– Sauté for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender but still vibrant.
– Finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

#### 5. **Bring It All Together**
– Plate the veggies as a base, top with seared cod and scallops.
– Drizzle with any leftover garlic butter from the veggie pan.
– Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

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### 🥂 Perfect Pairings

– **Side dish**: Serve with wild rice, mashed cauliflower, or crusty bread.
– **Wine**: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the delicate seafood flavors.
– **Extra flair**: Add a spoonful of herbed compound butter on top for a restaurant-style finish.

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### 💡 Tips for Success

– **Dry the seafood well** before cooking to get that perfect sear.
– **Don’t overcook** scallops—they go from perfect to rubbery fast.
– **Play with the veggies**: Try asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach.
– **Lemon zest or a splash of white wine** can add brightness to the garlic butter sauce.

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### ✨ Final Thoughts

This **Seared Cod & Scallops with Garlic Butter Veggies** recipe is a beautiful example of how a few quality ingredients and simple techniques can create something truly special. It’s fresh, flavorful, and balanced—just the right combination of comfort and sophistication.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish delivers a delicious, seafood-forward experience that feels like a seaside escape—right in your own kitchen. 🌊🍽️💛