Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then saute chile and white parts of scallions, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

Pat scallops and shrimp dry separately and season with salt. Heat remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in same skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then cook scallops until browned, 2 to 3 minutes on each side (scallops will be almost cooked through). Transfer scallops to a bowl with slotted spoon and saute shrimp in same skillet, stirring occasionally, until almost cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add shrimp to scallops.

Add coconut milk, curry paste, broth, brown sugar, fish sauce, and lime to skillet, then simmer, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook linguine in a 6- to 8-quart pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain in a colander.

Stir scallops and shrimp with any liquid in bowl into sauce in skillet and heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer until scallops and shrimp are just cooked through, about 2 minutes. Transfer seafood to a clean bowl with slotted spoon and add linguine and cilantro to sauce in skillet, tossing to coat.

Divide pasta and sauce among 4 bowls. Top with seafood and sprinkle with scallion greens and chile mixture.

Makes 4 servings.