Cocoa Seared Scallops with Orange-Grapefruit and Asparagus Salad

For Scallops: Wash scallops extremely well to remove grit. Pat scallops dry, then lightly sprinkle with salt.

In a small bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. Dredge each scallop in the cocoa mix. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear scallops, about 90 seconds. When they have browned nicely, flip the scallops to the other side and continue cooking to desired doneness, about 4 minutes for firm.

For Salad: Wash asparagus and snap off tough ends. Cook asparagus until tender but still firm. Cut each spear in half lengthwise and then into 2 long strips. Toss the asparagus, orange, grapefruit, tarragon, and onion in a bowl.

Add the honey and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

For Orange Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and pepper and saute until the shallots are lightly browned. Deglaze with the wine. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and parsley and reduce to half volume.

Add the orange juice concentrate and cream. Bring to a simmer, pull from heat, and whisk in butter bit by bit until incorporated. Remove the thyme, parsley and bay leaf.

Place the asparagus salad in the center of each plate. Arrange 4 scallops around the salad and drop a teaspoon of sauce between each scallop. Garnish sauce with a fresh parsley leaf.