Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Introduction:

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a delicious, quick, and easy seafood recipe perfect for dinner parties or family meals. The scallops are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, and baked until perfectly tender. This dish offers an elegant presentation with minimal effort, making it an excellent option for both casual and special occasions. With its irresistible combination of savory flavors and satisfying textures, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream.

Overview of the Recipe:

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a flavorful dish where large sea scallops are coated in a homemade garlic butter sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. The scallops are baked until they reach the perfect tender consistency, while the topping adds a golden crunch. Lemon juice and fresh parsley elevate the flavors and create a harmonious balance between the rich butter, garlic, and delicate seafood. This easy-to-follow recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and takes less than 20 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a convenient yet impressive dish.

History and Origin:

Scallops have been a popular seafood delicacy for centuries, often associated with gourmet dining. Found in coastal regions worldwide, scallops are prized for their sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture. Scallops can be served raw as sashimi, seared, or baked, as in this recipe. Baked scallops have been a staple in European and North American coastal cuisines, where the emphasis is on enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallop with simple, complementary ingredients like garlic, butter, and breadcrumbs. The combination of garlic and butter is a classic French pairing, often used in seafood dishes like escargot and lobster.

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Notes:

• Scallops: Look for fresh, large sea scallops for the best texture and flavor. Be sure to pat them dry to prevent excess moisture during baking.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallops.
• Garlic: Provides a savory and aromatic depth, pairing well with the delicate scallop flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb topping, complementing the richness of the scallops.
• Parsley and Lemon Juice: Fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the garlic butter.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before beginning, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the proper temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the scallops, ensuring an even cook and crispy topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the following:

• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Stir these ingredients together until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter. This garlic butter will infuse the scallops with a rich and flavorful sauce as they bake.

Step 3: Assemble the Scallops

• Lay the 1 lb large sea scallops in a single layer in a shallow baking dish. Make sure the scallops are not overlapping to allow for even cooking.
• Pour the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is well-coated. This will help the scallops absorb the delicious garlic and butter flavors during baking.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a separate small bowl, mix together:

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

Once mixed, evenly sprinkle this breadcrumb topping over the scallops. The mixture will form a golden, crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the scallops.

Step 5: Bake the Scallops

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops turn opaque and the breadcrumb topping becomes golden brown. Keep an eye on them after the 10-minute mark, as scallops can overcook quickly, leading to a rubbery texture. A perfect scallop should be soft, moist, and tender with a slight bite.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the baked scallops from the oven and serve them immediately while hot. Garnish with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrus squeeze, which enhances the flavors of the dish.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

• Rice or Risotto: A light, buttery risotto or simple steamed rice can complement the richness of the scallops without overwhelming the palate.
• Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced and healthy side.
• Pasta: Garlic butter scallops also pair well with a light pasta dish, such as spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil pasta) or lemon linguine.
• Bread: A side of crusty French bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra garlic butter sauce from the scallops.

Variations of the Recipe:

• Herb-Infused Butter: Add more fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the butter mixture for an herby twist.
• Spicy Garlic Butter: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture.
• Panko Crust: Swap the regular breadcrumbs with panko for an extra crispy topping. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier, giving a more substantial crunch.
• Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor, you can also try other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the breadcrumb topping for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Health Benefits:

Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, making them a healthy seafood option. They are low in calories and high in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Additionally, scallops are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic adds both flavor and health benefits to the dish.
• Butter: While butter is a source of fat, using it in moderation provides essential fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
• Lemon: The vitamin C in lemon juice helps support the immune system and adds a refreshing, tangy flavor to the dish.

Notes:

• To ensure that your scallops cook evenly, pat them dry before baking. Removing excess moisture prevents them from steaming and helps achieve a better texture.
• Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for its superior flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
• Adjust the level of garlic to your personal preference. If you’re a garlic lover, consider adding an extra clove or two.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen scallops?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This will help avoid excess moisture, which can impact the texture of the dish.

Q: How do I know when scallops are done?
A: Scallops are done when they turn opaque and have a firm but slightly springy texture. Overcooked scallops become tough and rubbery, so be careful not to overbake them.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter and breadcrumb topping in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or Gruyere cheese as alternatives. These cheeses will provide a similar salty and nutty flavor.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover baked scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion:

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a luxurious yet simple dish that anyone can make at home. With its tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and crispy Parmesan topping, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Whether served as a main course or appetizer, it is sure to impress guests with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation. Additionally, with several variations and pairing options, this recipe can be customized to suit various tastes and preferences.

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