Scallops with Creamed Spinach & Chorizo

Step 1Prepare the spinach and chorizo. Squeeze any excess water out of the spinach and slice or dice the chorizo sausage.

Step 2Place the chorizo sausage on a hot pan greased with one tablespoon of ghee and cook on medium-high until crisped up for 3-5 minutes. When done, use a slotted spoon and transfer the cooked chorizo into a bowl.

Step 3Prepare the scallops. Wash the scallops under cold running water to remove any gritty parts. There are two edible parts: the main white muscle and the roe (the orange part also known as coral as pictured below).

Step 4The small side-muscle that attaches the scallop to the shell is too tough for consumption and has to be removed and discarded. If you buy scallops with frill and gut, these also have to be removed. Again, clean the scallops under cold running water. Then, halve the scallops widthwise and place the scallops and the roe on a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Season the scallops with salt.
If you need more guidance, this video will show you how to clean and prepare scallops.

Step 5Pan-sear the scallops. Return the pan where you cooked the chorizo to heat. When the pan is hot, add the scallops in a single layer. Cook on one side for about 2 minutes and then flip over and cook for another 2 minutes. If the scallop is stuck to the pan, wait for a few more seconds before flipping. Both sides of the scallops should be seared lightly golden and look opaque when cooked. Do not overcook your scallops or they will become tough and chewy. Once cooked, remove the scallops from the pan and place on a plate.

Step 6Repeat for the remaining batch of scallops and roe. Once all the scallops and roe are cooked, return them to the pan and add the cooked chorizo sausage. Cook for 30-60 seconds just to heat up. When done, transfer into a plate and keep warm near the cooker - do not leave the scallops in the hot pan or they will keep cooking.

Step 7Meanwhile, peel and finely dice the garlic and place in a pan greased with the remaining two tablespoons of ghee. Cook until fragrant while stirring for just a few minutes. Then add the drained spinach and stir well.

Step 8Pour in the cream and cook for just about a minute. Add grated parmesan cheese, mix and take off the heat. When done, set aside.

Step 9Place the creamed spinach on a serving plate, or scallop shells if you have them. Top with scallops and chorizo. Drizzle with fresh lemon and garnish with black pepper and parsley.
If using shells instead of serving plates, make sure to boil them for 2-3 minutes before adding any food on top.