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Cauliflower Soup with Seared Scallops, Lemon Oil, and American Caviar

This sophisticated cauliflower soup is a masterclass in contrasting textures and delicate flavours. The velvety base, made from tender cauliflower simmered in a light broth, provides a luxurious backdrop for the sweet, caramelised notes of pan-seared scallops. A garnish of salty white sturgeon caviar and a drizzle of vibrant lemon-infused oil elevates this dish into something truly special for a dinner party or celebratory occasion.

While this refined seafood starter looks impressive, much of the preparation can be completed in advance. The soup base can be made a day ahead and gently reheated, allowing you to focus on the quick searing of the scallops just before serving. It is a light yet indulgent choice that beautifully balances earthy vegetable tones with the freshness of the sea.

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Ingredients for Cauliflower Soup with Seared Scallops, Lemon Oil, and American Caviar

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

  • 240ml chopped white onion

  • 1 garlic clove, sliced

  • 3 3/4 cups (1/2- to 3/4-inch pieces cauliflower (from 1 large head)

  • 350ml low-salt chicken broth

  • 350ml whipping cream

  • Coarse kosher salt

  • Freshly ground white pepper

  • 1 leek (white and pale green parts only), cut into 1/8-inch-thick rounds

  • 6 sea scallops, patted dry

  • 1 (30-gm) jar American white sturgeon caviar (about 30g )

  • 30ml purchased lemon-infused grapeseed oil

  • Finely chopped fresh chives

How to make Cauliflower Soup with Seared Scallops, Lemon Oil, and American Caviar

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Add cauliflower, broth, and cream. Bring soup to boil. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer gently until cauliflower is tender, about 18 minutes. Puree soup in small batches in blender until smooth. Return to same saucepan. Season soup with kosher salt and white pepper. Do ahead Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool slightly. Cover and chill. Rewarm before serving.

Blanch leek in small saucepan of boiling salted water 1 minute; drain. Place some of leek in centre of each bowl. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in medium skillet over high heat. Sprinkle scallops with salt and pepper. Sear until brown and just opaque in centre, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Place 1 scallop on leek in each bowl; top scallop with caviar. Ladle soup around scallop, drizzle with 1 teaspoon lemon oil, and sprinkle with chives.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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