Don't be fooled by size, small ingredients can contain some powerful health benefits. SCALLOPS are one of the highest sources of protein, with more per gram than even chicken or cod. A single serving of scallops contains more than 100% daily recommended value of protein. BEETS are more than just packed with antioxidants and cancer fighting compounds, they have been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac. The nitric oxide found in this blood red root stimulates blood flow and increases physical endurance (also making it a great workout power food). It is even said that the ancient Romans drank beet juice as a form of viagra. And SWEET POTATOES despite being so sweet, actually help to balance blood sugar, and they're packed with skin supporting vitamin C and vitamin A (the food form of retinol), which are the building blocks of collagen production and keep your skin firm.
Ingredients
serves 4
4 scallops
1/2 tablespoon coconut oil
2 beets
1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
2 sweet potatoes
1 large onion
1 tablespoon goat cheese
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Recipe
Sweet Potato Purée
Sautée onions (in olive, coconut, grapeseed, etc.), meanwhile boil potatoes peeled and evenly cubed sweet potatoes in salted water. When both are soft and tender, combine the two sweet potatoes, with the white balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, onion, and goat cheese and purée with an immersion blender or food processor. Add salt+pepper, dash more vinegar and even agave to offset the acidity and play around with the taste.
Seared Scallops
The trick with cooking scallops is to get the pan searing hot, that's how you get golden outer sear. To achieve this heat, add a neutral oil like grape seed to the butter. Oils have a high burning temperature so they prevent the butter from going black with the high heat you need.
Salt+Pepper the scallops prior. Once heat is reached, place them in pan, but do not move them, they'll stick to the pan initially, but will lift off once cooked. Once the scallops turn slightly opaque and seared on side, flip them over and sear other side. First side should cook for about one-two minutes, other side cooks slightly shorter. Squeeze a little lemon, salt and pepper again and serve immediately. Scallops are one of those ingredients that are best cooked simply.
Colorful Beets
Boil beets in salted water until tender. Blanche the beets in a bowl with ice water and while they are submerged, peel off the skins with your fingers. Cut into thin slices.