Sea Scallops with Green Beans & Orange Peel

I pulled out the Real Simple cookbook this week which I haven't picked up in quite some time. This cookbook was given to me a few years back and is a collection of recipes that were published in the Real Simple weeknight meals section. The recipes are very simplistic and on the lighter/healthier side as well. I cut the recipe in half because seafood just doesn't reheat well at all so this will make enough for 2. I also substituted green beans for snow peas because I have a vast supply from my garden right now and I want to use them up!

Sea Scallops with Green Beans & Orange Peel

ingredients

• 1/2 cup couscous 

• 1 tsp plus 1/2 tbsp olive oil

• 8-12 sea scallops

• kosher salt & freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/2 orange (eat the other half while you are cooking!)

• 1/2 lb fresh green beans, halved and ends trimmed

directions

1. Prepare the couscous per the package instructions. I always use chicken broth vs water to add more flavor. 

2. Heat 1 tsp of the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the scallops are dry using a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper and place in skillet. Cook 2 -3 minutes per side until golden brown and opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook them as they will become tough.

3. Remove 2 strips of zest from the orange (thick), then thinly slice them. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel and heat remaining olive oil. Note: since the pan will be pretty hot I used a pair of tongs to hold the paper towel and wiped out over the sink. Add the green beans, zest and some S&P. Cook the beans, tossing for 2-3 minutes. Serve with scallops and couscous.

This meal was very healthy and satisfying without sacrificing any flavor. The addition of the orange peel to the pan while sauteing the beans really does add a lot of extra flavor. A trick that I will probably use again in different meals. I love couscous - probably more than any other grain... it's so tasty and takes all of 5-6 minutes to make. If you haven't tried it, you should. I use chicken broth when I make mine to add more flavor but you can just use water if you want also.

Enjoy!

This recipe was adapted from Real Simple Seared Scallops with Snow Peas and Orange