Deliciously Baked Scallops: A Mouthwatering Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Scallops are a delicacy that seafood lovers can't resist. Their tender and succulent meat, combined with a rich and buttery flavor, makes them a perfect choice for any special occasion or even a simple weeknight dinner. One of the best ways to enjoy scallops is by baking them, which brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their taste. In this article, we will share with you a mouthwatering recipe for baked scallops that will surely impress your family and friends. So get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of these perfectly cooked scallops!

Ingredients required for Baked Scallops

- 1 pound of fresh scallops

- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

- Salt and pepper to taste

- ¼ cup of breadcrumbs

- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These simple ingredients are all you need to create a flavorful and delicious baked scallop dish.

Step-by-step instructions for Baked Scallops

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

3. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

4. Place the scallops in the greased baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them.

5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the scallops.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.

7. For a golden brown crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

8. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

These simple steps will result in perfectly baked scallops that are tender, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious. Enjoy!

Tips and variations for Baked Scallops

1. Seasoning options: Experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor of your baked scallops. Try adding a sprinkle of paprika, garlic powder, or lemon zest before baking.

2. Cheese lovers: For a cheesy twist, top the scallops with grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese before baking. The melted cheese will create a deliciously gooey crust.

3. Herb-infused butter: Make a flavored butter by mixing softened butter with chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill. Spread this mixture over the scallops before baking for an aromatic and flavorful result.

4. Bacon-wrapped scallops: Wrap each scallop with a strip of bacon before placing them on the baking sheet. The bacon adds richness and a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the scallops.

5. Grilled option: If you prefer a slightly charred taste, try grilling the scallops instead of baking them. Simply brush them with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.

6. Serving sauce: Serve your baked scallops with a tangy dipping sauce like aioli, tartar sauce, or lemon butter sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.

Remember to adjust cooking times based on the size of your scallops and always keep an eye on them while baking to prevent overcooking. These tips and variations will help you create unique and mouthwatering baked scallop dishes that are sure to impress seafood lovers!

Serving suggestions for Baked Scallops

Baked scallops are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. One popular option is to serve them as an appetizer, accompanied by a tangy lemon aioli or a creamy garlic sauce. The scallops can also be served as a main course, paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For an elegant presentation, arrange the baked scallops on a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy mashed potatoes. Another delicious option is to serve them over pasta, tossing the cooked scallops with al dente linguine and a light white wine sauce. Whichever way you choose to serve them, these deliciously baked scallops are sure to impress your guests and satisfy any seafood lover's cravings.

In conclusion, Baked Scallops are a delectable dish that is sure to impress seafood lovers. The combination of the tender scallops, flavorful breadcrumb topping, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience. This recipe is simple to make and can be easily customized to suit individual preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, Baked Scallops are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. So why not give this recipe a try and indulge in the irresistible flavors of these deliciously baked scallops?