This is a dish from the “Brooklyn Rustic” recipe book and is the perfect combination with scallops without overpowering them.
Serves 4
2 head cauliflower,cut into 1 inch florets
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
Fine sea salt
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
1/2 cup vegetable stock or water
Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced
2 tbsp avocado or coconut oil
1 1/2 lbs jumbo scallops (about 12 to 16)
freshly ground black pepper
4 oz young pea shoots
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
Toss the cauliflower with the olive oil and 1/4 tsp salt in a bowl.
Pour the cauliflower into a preheated pan inn an even layer and roast until golden, about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through roasting.
In a blender, puree the olives, vegetable stock, lemon juice, and half the basil until smooth, about 2 minutes
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Cooking in batches, if necessary, add the scallops to the skillet, leaving at least 1 1/2 inches between each scallop. Sear until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Scatter the pea shoots on a serving platter. Sprinkle the roasted cauliflower over the pea shoots, then lay the scallops on top.
Drizzle the olive puree over everything and finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest, the remaining basil and a drizzle of olive oil