02/17/2026
Cajun Scallops & Fennel Radish "Cool Down"
Cajun Seared Scallops
Ingredients
• Sea Scallops (thoroughly patted dry)
• 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1/8 tsp Dried Thyme
• Pinch of Sea Salt and Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
Instructions
1. Prep the Scallops: Pat the scallops extremely dry with a paper towel. This is the secret to getting a "sear" without using oil.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the dry spices. Dust both sides of the scallops evenly.
3. The "Dry" Sear: Heat a high-quality non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the scallops.
4. Cook: Let them sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes per side. They should develop a golden-brown crust from the spices.
5. Deglaze: Just before pulling them off the heat, squeeze the fresh lemon juice into the pan. It will steam up and create a light "sauce" that coats the scallops.
Chilled Fennel & Radish "Cool-Down"
This combination uses two approved vegetables to provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the heat of the blackened scallops.
Ingredients
• 2 oz Fennel bulb (thinly shaved or sliced)
• 2 oz Radishes (thinly sliced into rounds)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice
• Pinch of Sea Salt and Coarse Black Pepper
Instructions
1. Prep: Slice the fennel and radishes as thinly as possible. If you have a mandoline, use it! The thinner they are, the better they soak up the dill flavor.
2. Combine: Place the fennel, radishes, and fresh dill in a small bowl.
3. Dress: Toss with the vinegar (or lemon juice) and a pinch of salt.
4. Chill: Let it sit in the fridge for at least 10 minutes while you sear your scallops. This allows the radish to lose some of its "peppery" bite and the fennel to become sweet and crisp.
5. Serve: Plate your hot Cajun scallops right next to this chilled pile of veggies.
Why this works with the "Approved" List
• Fennel: It is a unique, crunchy vegetable on your list that offers a cooling sensation similar to celery but with more flavor depth.
• Radishes: They provide a great "crunch" factor and, when chilled with dill, they act as a palate cleanser for the spices.
• Dill Pairing: Both fennel and radishes are classic pairings for dill, making the whole dish feel cohesive rather than just a random side.