Introduction
Garlic butter baked scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines tender scallops with a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also results in an elegant meal that can impress family and friends. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, these scallops are sure to please any palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Fresh scallops (1 pound)
– Unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
– Fresh garlic, minced (4 cloves)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons)
– Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
– Salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
– Paprika (1 teaspoon, for garnish)
Prep Time
The preparation time for garlic butter baked scallops is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep makes it easy to fit this recipe into a busy schedule while still creating a gourmet dish.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the scallops is about 15 minutes. Therefore, the total time from prep to serving is roughly 25 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect choice for a small gathering or a family meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the scallops.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallops
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help them sear nicely.
Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Arrange Scallops
Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Ensure there is space between them for even cooking.
Step 5: Apply Garlic Butter
Drizzle the prepared garlic butter mixture over each scallop, making sure they are generously coated.
Step 6: Bake the Scallops
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The scallops should be opaque and cooked through.
Step 7: Broil for Extra Color
For a golden top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Remove the scallops from the oven, and serve them hot. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Freshness of Scallops
Use fresh, high-quality scallops for the best flavor and texture. Frozen scallops can also be used; just thaw them completely prior to cooking.
Note 2: Adjusting Garlic
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic in the butter mixture according to your taste preference.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
These garlic butter baked scallops pair well with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a light salad.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Cook techniques
Choosing Scallops
Select fresh, plump sea scallops for the best flavor and texture. Look for scallops that are moist and have a slightly sweet aroma.
Marinating Scallops
For enhanced flavor, marinate the scallops briefly in a mixture of garlic, butter, and herbs before baking.
Baking Technique
Bake scallops in a preheated oven at a high temperature to ensure they cook evenly and develop a slight golden crust on top.
Broiling Option
Alternatively, broil the scallops for a few minutes to achieve a charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve baked scallops immediately with additional garlic butter sauce drizzled over the top and fresh herbs for garnish.
FAQ
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
Sea scallops are recommended for their size and flavor, but bay scallops can also be used if adjusted for cooking time.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, frozen scallops can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating or baking.
How long should I bake scallops?
Bake scallops for about 10-12 minutes, depending on their size, until they are opaque and cooked through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to cook scallops just before serving, but you can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with baked scallops?
Baked scallops pair well with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, and can also be served with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Baked Scallops combine rich flavors and a delightful texture, making them a perfect dish for seafood lovers. The buttery garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, resulting in a gourmet meal that’s easy to prepare. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, these baked scallops are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Swap scallops for shrimp in a similar garlic butter sauce for a quick and savory dish.
Lemon Herb Grilled Fish
Pair grilled fish with a lemon herb glaze for a light and refreshing seafood option.
Baked Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter
Try this indulgent twist by using lobster tails topped with the same garlic butter mix.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
Serve your scallops over a bed of creamy garlic pasta for a complete meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use a mixture of scallops, rice, and spices as a filling for bell peppers for a colorful dish.