PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS WITH BACON AND SPINACH

Steps:

• Cook bacon in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until crisp.
• Remove bacon from pan, reserving 1 tablespoon drippings in pan; coarsely chop and set bacon aside. Increase heat to high.
• Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
• Sprinkle scallops evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
• Add scallops to drippings in pan; cook 2 1/2 minutes on each side or until done.
• Transfer to a plate; keep warm.
• Reduce heat to medium-high & add onion and garlic to pan; sauté 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add half of spinach; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently.
• Add remaining half of spinach; cook 2 minutes or just until wilted, stirring frequently.
• Remove from heat; stir in remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper and pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Divide spinach mixture among 4 plates; top each serving evenly with crumbled bacon and 3 scallops.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.