✨ Why You’ll Love This Potato Leek & Scallop Mash Recipe
Looking for a holiday starter that’s equal parts fancy and fuss-free? This dish is exactly that. Imagine creamy, buttery mash infused with leeks, paired with golden-browned scallops seared in rosemary butter, and topped with fresh herbs. Sounds like something from a fine-dining menu, right? But it’s absolutely doable in your own kitchen—and it comes together in under 30 minutes!
This Potato Leek & Scallop Mash is a showstopper that’s perfect for Christmas dinners, date nights, or anytime you want to wow your guests (or just treat yourself!).
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 2:
For the mash:
- 300g potatoes (starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russets work great)
- 1 leek, white and light green parts only
- 10g butter
- 15cl cream (heavy or full-fat works best)
- Salt to taste
For the scallops:
- 8–10 scallops (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 10cl olive oil
- 10g butter
- A small sprig of rosemary
- Fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, or dill) for garnish
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon for brightness
🧑🍳 How To Make It – Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Leek & Potato Mash
Start by peeling the potatoes and slicing the leek thinly. Place both in a saucepan of salted, boiling water and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and transfer the vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add 10g butter, 15cl cream, and a generous pinch of salt. Blend until ultra-smooth and velvety. You can also use a potato masher if you prefer a more rustic texture.
Pro Tip: Want an even creamier mash? Warm your cream before adding it—it helps the potatoes absorb the liquid better!
2. Sear the Scallops Like a Pro
Pat your scallops dry with a paper towel—this is key to getting that golden crust. Heat 10cl olive oil in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Add scallops in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Sear for about 3–3.5 minutes per side, until they develop a rich golden color. Add 10g butter and rosemary, then spoon the sizzling butter over the scallops as they finish cooking.
Season with salt, and remove from heat once they’re opaque and springy to the touch.
Chef’s Secret: Basting the scallops with rosemary-infused butter not only adds flavor—it helps keep the center tender and juicy. Don’t skip it!
3. Assemble & Serve
On a warm plate, spoon a generous amount of the creamy mash. Gently place the scallops on top. Drizzle with the leftover rosemary butter from the pan, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs, and if desired, a few drops of lemon juice.
Serve immediately and watch your guests swoon! 😍
🧂 Variations & Customizations
This dish is as flexible as it is fabulous. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Make it dairy-free: Use olive oil and coconut cream instead of butter and dairy cream.
- Add crunch: Top with crispy shallots or garlic chips for texture.
- Citrus twist: Swap rosemary with thyme and finish with orange zest for a refreshing holiday vibe.
- Use different seafood: Try it with shrimp or even a fillet of pan-seared cod if scallops aren’t available.
🥄 What to Serve With Scallop & Leek Mash
This elegant starter pairs beautifully with:
- A chilled glass of white wine (think Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Crusty bread or baguette slices
Or just keep it minimal—the mash and scallops are flavorful enough to steal the spotlight.
💡 Make Ahead Tips
Yes, you can absolutely prep ahead:
- The mash: Make and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
- The scallops: Sear them just before serving. They only take minutes to cook and are best fresh from the pan.
❤️ Why This Dish Deserves a Spot on Your Holiday Menu
- Elegant yet easy: Looks gourmet but requires no fancy equipment.
- Full of flavor: Creamy mash, herb butter, and seared scallops are a flavor dream team.
- Quick cook: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes!
- Customizable: Adapt it to your diet and preferences with ease.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Potato Leek & Scallop Mash is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. Creamy, comforting, and indulgent with a light, fresh finish thanks to the herbs and lemon—it’s everything a perfect starter should be. Whether you’re planning your Christmas Eve menu or just need a mid-week dinner that feels like a treat, this recipe delivers.
And hey—if your guests lick the plate? We won’t blame them. 😉