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Scallops with Hazelnuts and Warm Sun Gold Tomatoes

This elegant seafood dish of seared scallops with hazelnuts and warm sun gold tomatoes offers a sophisticated balance of textures and flavours. The sweetness of the burst tomatoes provides a vibrant, silky sauce that complements the delicate, caramelised scallops, while the toasted skin-on hazelnuts add a satisfying earthy crunch. Using sun gold or sweet yellow grape tomatoes ensures a bright acidity that lifts the entire meal without the need for heavy, calorie-dense sauces.

As a heart-healthy option, this recipe relies on healthy unsaturated fats from olive oil and nuts to provide richness. It makes a wonderful light supper or an impressive starter for a dinner party, especially when served alongside some crusty bread to soak up the savoury juices. High in lean protein and packed with antioxidants, it is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Scallops with Hazelnuts and Warm Sun Gold Tomatoes

  • 40g coarsely chopped skin-on hazelnuts

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 675g large sea scallops, side muscle removed, patted dry

  • 575ml Sun Gold or grape tomatoes

  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves

How to make Scallops with Hazelnuts and Warm Sun Gold Tomatoes

Preheat oven to 350°. Toast hazelnuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing occasionally, until golden brown, 8-10 minutes. Toss with 1 tablespoon oil; season with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Season scallops with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and just cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

Pour off most liquid in skillet. Add tomatoes and shallot, season with salt and pepper, and cook, tossing, until some tomatoes have burst, about 4 minutes. Mix in vinegar and serve with scallops topped with tarragon and hazelnuts.

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.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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