Campanelle with Scallops

Introduction

Campanelle with scallops is a simple yet elegant pasta dish that combines tender seafood with flavorful pasta. Campanelle pasta has a unique shape that looks like small bells or flowers. This shape is perfect for holding sauces, which makes every bite delicious and satisfying.

Scallops are the star of this recipe. They have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a soft texture when cooked properly. When paired with garlic, butter, olive oil, and fresh herbs, scallops become even more flavorful. Together with pasta, they create a meal that feels special but is still easy to prepare at home.

This dish is great for many occasions. It works well for a family dinner, a romantic meal, or even a small gathering with friends. Even if you are new to cooking seafood, the steps are simple and easy to follow.

With fresh ingredients and a few basic cooking techniques, you can prepare a restaurant-style pasta dish right in your own kitchen.

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Cooking Time & Prep Time

Here is the approximate time needed for this recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 35 minutes

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

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Ingredients

Below are the ingredients needed to prepare Campanelle with Scallops.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz campanelle pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Scallops and Sauce

• 1 lb sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth or seafood broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges

Tip: Choose dry sea scallops instead of wet scallops if possible. They brown better and taste sweeter.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the water, then add the campanelle pasta.

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still slightly firm.

Before draining the pasta, save ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. This can help adjust the sauce later.

Drain the pasta and set it aside.

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2. Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is important because dry scallops brown better in the pan.

Season the scallops lightly with salt and black pepper.

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3. Cook the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Place the scallops in the pan in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan, or they will steam instead of sear.

Cook the scallops for about 2–3 minutes per side until they become golden brown.

Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

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4. Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.

Add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring gently until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Be careful not to burn the garlic.

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5. Add Broth and Cream

Pour the chicken or seafood broth into the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.

Then add the heavy cream and mix well. Allow the sauce to cook for 3–4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

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6. Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.

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7. Combine the Pasta

Add the cooked campanelle pasta to the skillet.

Toss the pasta gently in the sauce so that every piece is coated.

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8. Add the Scallops

Return the scallops to the skillet and gently mix them with the pasta.

Cook everything together for about 1–2 minutes so the flavors combine.

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9. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and add extra Parmesan if desired.

Serve immediately while the dish is warm and creamy.

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Tips & Variations

This recipe is flexible and easy to customize.

Use different pasta

If you cannot find campanelle, you can use:

• Penne
• Fusilli
• Farfalle

These shapes also hold sauce well.

Make it lighter

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce.

Add vegetables

You can add vegetables such as:

• Spinach
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Asparagus

These add color and extra nutrition.

Make it gluten-free

Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

Make it dairy-free

Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

Add more seafood

Shrimp, crab, or lobster can be added for a seafood pasta combination.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

These numbers may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Health Benefits

This dish contains several ingredients that provide helpful nutrients.

Scallops

Scallops are high in protein and low in fat. They also contain vitamin B12, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health.

Garlic

Garlic may help support the immune system and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Olive oil

Olive oil contains healthy fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Parsley

Parsley provides vitamins A, C, and K. It also adds fresh flavor to the dish.

Lemon

Lemon juice adds vitamin C and helps brighten the flavor of the sauce.

When enjoyed in balanced portions, this pasta dish can be both satisfying and nourishing.

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Serving Suggestions

Campanelle with scallops is best served immediately while warm. The creamy sauce and tender scallops taste best right after cooking.

Here are a few ideas to complete the meal:

Serve with bread

Garlic bread or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Add a salad

A simple green salad with lettuce, cucumber, and vinaigrette adds freshness.

Pair with vegetables

Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach make excellent side dishes.

Storage tips

If you have leftovers:

• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in a pan with a small splash of milk or broth.

Avoid overheating scallops because they can become tough.

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Conclusion

Campanelle with scallops is a delicious pasta dish that feels elegant but is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of tender scallops, creamy sauce, and beautifully shaped pasta creates a meal that is both comforting and impressive.

With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. It is ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want a seafood pasta that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Give this recipe a try and share it with family or friends. A warm plate of pasta and scallops is always a wonderful way to bring people together. Enjoy your cooking!