Scallop Recipes

Scallops, with their delicate flavor and tender texture, are a true seafood delicacy. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, scallops are sure to impress. Here are some delectable scallop recipes that are easy to make and guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

1. Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large sea scallops
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and opaque in the center.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley, then return the scallops to the skillet and coat them with the sauce.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish.

2. Scallop and Bacon Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large sea scallops
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb linguine or spaghetti
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the scallops and set aside.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
8. Return the cooked pasta, bacon, and scallops to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

3. Scallop Ceviche

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large sea scallops, diced
• Juice of 4 limes
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced scallops and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until the scallops are opaque and “cooked” by the lime juice.
2. Drain the scallops, reserving about 1/4 cup of the lime juice.
3. Add the red onion, jalapeño, avocado, cilantro, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the scallops.
4. Gently toss to combine, adding the reserved lime juice as needed for flavor.
5. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or as a refreshing starter.

4. Scallop and Corn Chowder

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large sea scallops
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the corn, broth, and diced potatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, sear the scallops over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Add the scallops and cooked bacon to the chowder. Stir to combine and heat through.
8. Garnish with fresh chives and serve hot.

Conclusion

Scallops are a versatile and luxurious ingredient that can elevate any meal. Whether you prefer them seared with a simple lemon butter sauce, tossed with pasta, or transformed into a vibrant ceviche, these recipes are sure to impress. Try them out and enjoy the delicious taste of scallops at home!