How many ways are there to say “smooth”? Executive chef Sharon Hage’s sophisticated scallop risotto from Dallas Italian hot spot Salve! (2120 McKinney Avenue) provides three answers to that question. The barely seared shellfish have the texture of satin; the risotto, sparked with basil leaf and lemon zest, is as lush as velvet. The final touch, a luxurious blend of mascarpone, white wine, and saffron, takes silky to a new level. You won’t need a dictionary to interpret the smiles on the faces of your guests.

Try this recipe for Lemon-Basil Risotto With Diver Scallops from Salve, Dallas.