Taking fresh the scallops from the fridge

Rinsing them before gently patting dry

Delicately seasoning with salt and fresh ground pepper

Squeezing the juice from a whole orange

Cutting another into thin slices

Shaving the zest off the orange peel

Peeling a few cloves of garlic

Heating a well loved cast iron frying pan

Adding a splash of extra virgin olive oil

Waiting until the oil is super hot

Tossing in the scallops quickly 

Listening to the rapid sizzle

Searing them quickly on both sides

Pulling them out to set aside

Tossing in the garlic and browning it

Stirring in a few shots of rum

Deglazing the pan as the alcohol burns off

Adding the orange juice and a chunk of butter

Sprinkling in the orange zest

Turning down the heat as it reduces

Putting the scallops back in for a few seconds

Adding a few chili flakes for good measure

Scooping everything into a beautiful serving dish

Adding a dash of orange zest just for fun

Decorating with chopped parsley and orange slices

Squeezing a fresh lemon over the entire dish

Serving to smiling happy faces

Bringing rice and vegetables to the table

Pouring a fine wine in acute anticipation

Breathing in the exploding citrous aroma

Taking that first bite with eyes almost closed

The party in the mouth begins

Soft fleshy scallop meat with seared edges

Dancing with the juicy citrus orange sauce

The garlic and chili flakes demand to be noticed

Chewing releases more flavors

The wine starts flowing and the conversation flows faster

Making memories with good friends