Thermo-Three-Cheese Ziti with Seared Scallops

This unique, heat-filled recipe offers scallops, marinated olive oil, habanero peppers and other spicy seasonings then served over three-cheese ziti. The habanero heat fused with the scallops, though the heat won't be overwhelming. If you're looking for extra kick, toss the end result with freshly diced habanero. This combination of cheeses results in a creamy, slightly smokey flavor - highly complimentary to the scallops.

Thermo-Three-Cheese Ziti with Seared Scallops

Ingredients

• 2 habanero peppers, diced
• 10 large sea scallops
• 4 ounces smoked gouda
• 2 ounces goat cheese
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese
• 1-1/2 cup ziti noodles
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Cooking Directions

• Slice scallops in half through the center, keeping them circular.
• Add scallops to a large baggie or mixing bowl and add habanero peppers, garlic, chili powder, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss to coat.
• Prepare ziti noodles by boiling them as directed on the box.
• Heat a sauté pan to medium-high heat in preparation for your scallops.
• Once ziti is tender to your preference, drain and return noodles to pot.
• Set pot back to heat and add milk and cheeses.
• Stir vigorously until cheeses melt thoroughly. Cover and set aside.
• With sauté pan good and hot, add olive oil and add scallops.
• Saute scallops about 1 to 1-1/2 minutes per side, or until scallops are cooked through, white all the way through, opaque.
• Distribute ziti to 2 bowls and top with cilantro and then 10 half scallops each.
• Serve!

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