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Festive Citrus Seafood Medley

This vibrant seafood dish combines oysters, shrimp, and scallops sautéed in fragrant garlic, olive oil, and seafood stock, then finished with bright citrus zest and herbs. The final result is a colorful, juicy, and slightly smoky medley with a zesty, aromatic sauce that clings to each piece, perfect for a festive holiday table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Festive
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces fresh oysters preferably plump and tightly closed
  • 12 pieces shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 12 pieces scallops fresh, dry-packed
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons good-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup seafood stock homemade or store-bought
  • 1 piece lemon or lime for zest and juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon citrus zest freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons citrus juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs parsley or cilantro

Equipment

  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Microplane Zester
  • Small Bowls
  • Cooking thermometer

Method
 

  1. Gather all your seafood ingredients and keep them chilled until ready to cook, ensuring maximum freshness and safety.
  2. Prepare your equipment: a large skillet, tongs, a microplane, measuring spoons, and small bowls for herbs and garlic. Have your zest and juice ingredients pre-measured for quick access.
  3. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, releasing a warm, aromatic aroma.
  4. Add the oysters, shrimp, and scallops to the hot skillet using tongs, spreading them out evenly. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crust and smell smoky and inviting.
  5. Pour in the seafood stock and citrus juice, then sprinkle the chili flakes and citrus zest over the seafood. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the seafood to finish cooking.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning—add more lemon or lime juice if it needs extra brightness, or a pinch of salt if it feels dull. Finish by stirring in chopped herbs for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and let the seafood rest for a minute. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs and citrus zest, alongside crusty bread or a bed of greens for a complete festive presentation.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the seafood; it should be juicy and tender. The dish is best served immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.