Savory Sea Scallops and Angel Hair Pasta

This scallop pasta dish is a very simple, easy-to-prep meal that you will most likely be asked to make again! The taste, if carefully prepared and not overcooked, is incredible.

Ingredients :

1. 1 (16 ounce) package angel hair pasta
2. ¼ cup butter
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 2 pounds sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
5. 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
6. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
7. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
8. salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
9. ½ cup heavy cream (Optional)
10. 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese to taste (Optional)

Directions :

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add angel hair pasta and cook, uncovered, for 4 to 5 minutes or until al dente; drain.
2. While pasta is cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook just until fragrant and softened, about 1 minute.
3. Slice any scallops over 3/4-inch thick in half so they'll cook evenly.
4. Stir scallops, basil, and parsley into the skillet. Cook and gently stir just until scallops feel slightly firm when pressed with a finger, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scallops will become tough and chewy if overcooked.
5. Reduce heat to low; stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Pour in cream if you like a thicker sauce and cook just until the sauce begins to simmer.