SEA SCALLOPS WITH SPINACH

1 1/2 lbs large sea scallops

1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp paprika
dash of ground red pepper
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tsp olive or canola oil, divided
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp minced garlic
10-oz fresh baby spinach
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

In a small saucepan bring the sugar, paprika, red pepper, and lemon juice to a boil; cook 4 minutes until thickened.  Allow to cool slightly.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add 1 teaspoon olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat pan.  Sprinkle half the salt, and all the pepper over the scallops that have been patted dry.  Add to the pan and cook 2 minutes per side or until done.  Remove from pan; set aside but keep warm.

Add the remaining oil to the skillet along with the garlic.  Cook a few seconds, stirring constantly.  Add the spinach and cook, stirring constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until spinach is lightly wilted.  Stir in the remaining salt.

the file photo

To serve, place the spinach on shallow serving plate, top with the scallops, and drizzle the boiled mixture over the top.  Sprinkle with the pine nuts.