ASPARAGUS WITH SCALLOPS, BROWNED BUTTER AND PROSCIUTTO

Steps:

• Cook the asparagus in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until tender, about 8 minutes.
• Using tongs, transfer the asparagus to a colander and leave the pan of water simmering on the stove.
• Melt 1 tablespoons butter in a large skillet.
• Add the proscuitto to the butter and cook over low heat until crisp, about 4 minutes.
• Transfer proscuitto to a plate.
• Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the skillet and add the scallops, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
• Transfer the scallops to a plate.
• Add the lemon zest to the skillet and cook over moderate heat until browned, about 1 minute.
• Add the lemon juice and simmer for 10 seconds.
• Add the broth and simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan until reduced to a rich glaze, about 3 minutes.
• Swirl in the remaining 1/2 tablespoons butter and return the scallops to the pan, along with any juices and cook on low heat until heated through.
• Return the asparagus to the simmering water to heat through.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper.
• Using tongs, transfer the asparagus to a large platter and spoon the scallops and sauce over it.
• Top with proscuitto and serve.