Seared Scallops with Parmesan Green Peas

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas and cook 2–3 minutes or until bright green. Set aside 3/4 cup of the peas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the remaining 1 3/4 cup peas, the basil, shallot, 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese and salt and pepper to taste. Add 1/4-1/2 cup water. Cover and blend until nearly smooth. Pour into a bowl and stir in reserved peas.
3. In a large skillet cook the bacon over medium heat 4–6 minutes or until the fat is rendered and bacon is crisp. Remove bacon and discard all but 2 tablespoons of the fat.
4. Return pan with reserved fat to stove over medium-high heat. Once pan is hot, add scallops and cook 1–2 minutes per side or until crisp and opaque.
5. Divide the pea mixture among 4 plates and evenly top with bacon, scallops and remaining Parmesan cheese.