Garlic cream soup with scallops

Garlic Cream Soup with Saint-Jacques Scallops

Who wouldn't want to impress guests with a sophisticated yet easy-to-make appetizer? Garlic cream soup with Saint-Jacques scallops is the perfect choice to elevate dinner to another level. This recipe combines the intense flavors of roasted garlic with the delicacy of scallops, creating an elegant dish full of personality. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 heads of garlic
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 50 g butter
- 16 Saint-Jacques scallops (4 per person)
- 2 good bunches of green lamb's lettuce or young spinach
- Salt, pepper, olive oil

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the garlic: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Take the heads of garlic and cut a little off the top with a sharp knife to allow the flavors to develop during baking. Drizzle with a little olive oil, then wrap in aluminum foil. Place on a tray and put in the oven for about 40 minutes until soft and fragrant.

2. Preparing the soup: Once the garlic is roasted, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, extract the cloves from the head and place them in a pot. Add the liquid cream and place the pot over medium heat. Let the mixture simmer gently, then blend everything with a blender until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If the soup is too thick, add a little water until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Preparing the lamb's lettuce: Wash the lamb's lettuce or spinach under a stream of cold water. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the lamb's lettuce, and let it boil for 2-3 minutes until softened. Immediately after, plunge it into a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain the lamb's lettuce and blend it until you achieve a fine puree. Place the lamb's lettuce puree in a pot with butter and cook for a few minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Preparing the Saint-Jacques scallops: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it over high heat. Place the scallops in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. It is important not to overcook them, as they will become rubbery. Once done, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

5. Assembling the dish: In deep plates, pour the garlic cream soup, then add a layer of lamb's lettuce puree. Place four Saint-Jacques scallops in each plate to create an attractive appearance. For a special detail, garnish with smoked herring roe – they add a contrast of textures and an extra layer of flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you can't find fresh Saint-Jacques scallops, frozen ones are an excellent alternative; make sure to thaw them before cooking.
- You can substitute lamb's lettuce with spinach, but lamb's lettuce offers a slightly sweeter taste and vibrant color.
- This cream soup can be served warm or at room temperature, but it is best enjoyed warm.
- For a touch of freshness, add a few fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley on top.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted? Roasted garlic offers a unique sweetness, but if you prefer a more intense flavor, you can use fresh garlic, being careful not to overdo the amount.
- How can I prepare this soup in a vegetarian version? You can omit the scallops and add toasted bread croutons for extra texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This garlic cream soup with Saint-Jacques scallops is rich in protein and vitamins. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while scallops provide an important source of omega-3, beneficial for heart health.

Recommended recipes and drinks:
To complement this elegant meal, you can serve a dry white wine, which will enhance the flavors of the dish. Additionally, a green salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette can be an excellent choice for a fresh contrast.

In conclusion, garlic cream soup with Saint-Jacques scallops is not just a delicious dish, but also a culinary experience that will bring a touch of refinement to any occasion. It will surely become a favorite not only of your guests but also of yours! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 4 heads of garlic, 500 ml liquid cream, 50g butter, scallops (4 per person), 2 good bunches of green or young spinach, salt, pepper, olive oil

 Tags:  scallops garlic sour cream