An Elegant Valentine's Day Dinner At Home

I'm sure most couples who have young kids in their lives can relate to the major downshift in the romance department since their early days of wedded bliss.  As a busy mom, I find it difficult to plan a romantic dinner out with my very deserving husband, especially on Valentine's Day.  Instead of accepting this roadblock with defeat, I use my homegrown culinary skills to tantalize Alan's tastebuds to show my love for him.

If you and your significant other love seafood, here is an elegant, luxurious and surprisingly quick n' easy recipe to cook on a weekday for an at home Valentine's Day dinner or anytime!

Seared Seasoned Scallops with Bacon and Avocado

Ingredients List:
12-14 frozen large scallops, fresh is fine too
2 ripe avocados
6 strips bacon
6 tbsp flour
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
juice from half of a lemon
pinch of cayenne pepper, optional

Serves 2 people.

Begin by cooking the bacon in the microwave, following package instructions.  Half and remove the pit of the avocados.  Remove the flesh from the peel and mash with fork in a bowl.  Mix with salt, lemon juice and cayenne pepper if desired.  You will want the consistency of guacamole.  Set aside.

Thaw the scallops per package instructions.  Make sure to remove the tendon on the side.  After rinsing, be sure to pat the scallops dry.  Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp of the salt, the paprika and the pepper. Roll the seasoned scallops in a bowl of the flour.  Be sure to shake the excess of well.  Heat a pan over medium to medium-high heat then add the butter and the olive oil.  Let it warm up for a few seconds.  Then add the scallops.  Let them brown for 5 minutes- do not stir or move them.  If the pan is beginning to smoke, lower the heat a bit.  After 5 minutes, turn the scallops and cook the other side. 

Meanwhile, prepare to plate your creation by mounding the avocado mixture in the center.  Next, arrange the bacon over the avocado in a wide "X" with a third piece through the center.  When the scallops are finished cooking, place them in a circle around the avocado and bacon with one scallop in the middle. (see above picture)

Serve with a nice white wine and you both will be on your way to remembering those earlier romantic times.  Enjoy!