Broiled Scallops Recipe

Name: Broiled Scallops
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 11 min
Yield: 3
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds bay scallops; 2 tablespoons melted butter, or as needed; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon garlic salt

Cook Time: 6 minutes

Bay Scallops with Lemon and Garlic Butter

This simple yet flavorful recipe for bay scallops is a great way to enjoy a quick and delicious seafood dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a special appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients (Serves 3)

1 pounds bay scallops
2 tablespoons melted butter (or as needed)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon garlic salt

Directions

Preheat the broiler to high heat.
Rinse the bay scallops under cold water, ensuring they are clean and free of any grit. Place them in a shallow baking pan.
Drizzle the melted butter over the scallops, followed by the lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic salt. Toss the scallops gently to coat them evenly with the mixture.
Place the pan under the preheated broiler and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the scallops start to turn golden brown and become slightly crispy at the edges.
Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Serve the scallops immediately, with extra melted butter on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	273	13%
Total Fat	9g	12%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	95mg	32%
Sodium	2232mg	97%
Total Carbohydrates	7g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Total Sugars	0g
Protein	38g	77%
Vitamin C	11mg	13%
Calcium	60mg	5%
Iron	1mg	4%
Potassium	755mg	16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Consult your doctor or registered dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

These broiled scallops are flavored with butter, lemon, and garlic salt, then quickly broiled until golden brown and sweet for a quick, easy dinner.

History and Origin of Scallops

Scallops have been a staple in global cuisine for centuries, with references to their consumption dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. They were considered a delicacy and symbol of wealth, often featured in royal banquets. Today, scallops are enjoyed worldwide, with the broiled version becoming especially popular in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. The simplicity of broiling scallops enhances their delicate natural sweetness, making this dish a favorite among seafood lovers.

Regional Variations of Broiled Scallops

Broiled scallops are especially popular in coastal regions, particularly in North America and Europe. In the United States, Maryland is famous for its Old Bay seasoning, which is often used in place of garlic salt for added spice. On the East Coast, particularly in New England, the dish is often served with a side of fresh bread and a squeeze of lemon. In Italy, broiled scallops are commonly paired with a simple pasta or served as part of a seafood platter during festive meals, with fresh herbs and olive oil accentuating the flavor.

What Sets Broiled Scallops Apart?

While scallops can be prepared in various ways, broiling them is a quick and effective method that allows the natural flavors to shine through. Unlike fried scallops, which can absorb excess oil, broiling allows the scallops to cook evenly, developing a golden-brown crust while retaining their tender texture inside. Compared to other shellfish dishes, broiled scallops are often lighter and less rich, making them a healthier alternative for those looking for a low-fat, high-protein meal.

Where Are Broiled Scallops Usually Served?

Broiled scallops are commonly served at seafood restaurants, particularly along coastal areas. They are often featured on the menu of upscale dining establishments as an elegant appetizer or main course. In many homes, this dish is prepared for special occasions such as family gatherings or romantic dinners. Its simplicity and speed of preparation make it an ideal choice for those who want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Interesting Facts About Scallops

Scallops are unique among shellfish for their ability to swim. They use their muscular adductor muscle to rapidly open and close their shells, propelling themselves through the water.
The "coral" (or roe) of the scallop is often discarded, but it is actually edible and considered a delicacy in some cultures.
Scallops are harvested either by diving or by dredging. "Dry-packed" scallops, which are harvested without preservatives, are considered superior in quality compared to the more commonly found "wet" scallops.
Scallops are high in protein and low in fat, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Conclusion

Broiled scallops are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this versatile shellfish. Whether you're preparing them for a casual dinner or an elegant feast, this dish is sure to impress with its delicate flavors and quick preparation time. So, next time you're craving seafood, consider trying broiled scallops for a healthy and flavorful option.

FAQ about Broiled Scallops Recipe

Leftover broiled scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, it's best to use a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery or dry.

Yes, broiled scallops can be frozen. After cooling, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently heat them in a skillet or oven.

For the best flavor and texture, use dry-packed scallops. These are typically fresher, more flavorful, and brown better during cooking. Wet scallops, which are treated with preservatives, can release excess moisture and may result in a less desirable texture and taste.

Yes, you can substitute garlic salt with fresh minced garlic, garlic powder, or even onion powder for a different flavor profile. If using garlic powder, adjust the amount to taste.

Scallops are done when they turn golden and opaque in the center. Overcooking can lead to a tough and rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them. Broiling for about 6-8 minutes usually works well.

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like fresh herbs, paprika, or Parmesan cheese before broiling. You can also try adding a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Broiled scallops pair well with light sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a simple pasta. You could also serve them over a bed of risotto or with a side of garlic bread.

Yes, you can use frozen scallops for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator before cooking, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before broiling.

Comments

Lisa Clark

10/03/2022 02:56:56 AM

Absolutely fantastic! The only thing that held it back was the quality of the scallops we used. We opted for budget Sam's frozen scallops since that's what we had, similar to another reviewer, and they still worked out well. Following a suggestion from another reviewer, I reduced the amount of garlic salt and added garlic powder. My husband frequently orders scallops when we dine out and he can attest to the delicious flavor of this seemingly simple recipe. I give it a 5 for simplicity, and he gives it a 5 for taste. It's a definite winner!

Katherine Brown

08/05/2023 03:05:48 AM

Delicious! Residing in Maryland, I saw that a fellow reviewer swapped Old Bay Seasoning for Garlic Salt. I melted 4 tablespoons of butter in the microwave with 4 sliced garlic cloves and 1 ounce of lime juice, allowing it to sit while I washed and dried 1.5 pounds of Sea Scallops. I coated a large frying pan and the scallops with the butter mixture, placed them in the pan, and sprinkled them with Old Bay. I cooked them for 4-5 minutes on each side over medium to medium-high heat until they turned golden brown. They were fantastic!

Victoria Baker

09/13/2023 12:00:48 PM

I found the scallops to be slightly soggy, even though I dried them off after rinsing. I plan to give them another try with different spices next time.

Kevin Miller

06/26/2023 04:23:47 AM

Fast and convenient, decent but not excellent.

Patrick Evans

08/25/2023 01:55:43 PM

Delicious! Instead of just sprinkling butter and lemon juice on top, I decided to elevate the dish by marinating the dried scallops in a mixture of butter, lemon juice, and garlic salt. I made sure to scrape every last bit of the flavorful seasoning into the pan using a spatula. The result was absolutely fantastic!

Justin Nelson

08/30/2022 06:33:27 PM

It ended up being incredibly delicious.

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Broiled Scallops Recipe