Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: From start to finish, this dish takes less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes basic pantry staples, ensuring you can whip up this gourmet dish without a special trip to the store.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from salads to roasted vegetables, allowing for a customizable meal experience.
- Elegant Presentation: The golden-brown crust achieved through broiling offers a restaurant-quality appearance.
- Flavorful and Healthy: Rich in protein and low in carbs, this dish aligns with various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1½ pounds bay scallops
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
Directions
- Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven to the high broil setting.
- Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place them in a shallow baking pan.
- Season: Drizzle the melted butter and lemon juice over the scallops. Sprinkle evenly with garlic salt.
- Broil: Place the pan under the preheated broiler. Broil for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the scallops turn a golden color.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. For added richness, provide extra melted butter on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 3 servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 11-13 minutes
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Add freshly chopped parsley or dill to the butter mixture for an herbal twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to introduce some heat.
- Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops before broiling for a savory crust.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the butter mixture for a zesty flavor enhancement.
- Garlic Lovers: Use freshly minced garlic instead of garlic salt for a more robust garlic flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place any leftover scallops in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To maintain tenderness, reheat scallops gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
- Freezing: Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended, as it can alter their texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use sea scallops instead of bay scallops?
Yes, sea scallops are larger and can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may require a minute or two longer under the broiler.
What can I substitute for garlic salt?
You can use a combination of fresh minced garlic and a pinch of regular salt to achieve a similar flavor profile.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
Scallops are cooked when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. Overcooking can lead to a tough texture, so monitor them closely.
Is it necessary to rinse the scallops before cooking?
Rinsing helps remove any residual sand or grit. Ensure you pat them dry thoroughly to achieve proper browning during broiling.
Can I prepare the scallops ahead of time?
It's best to cook scallops just before serving to maintain their delicate texture. However, you can prepare the seasoning mixture in advance to streamline the process.
What side dishes pair well with broiled scallops?
Broiled scallops pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, frozen scallops can be used. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
How can I add more flavor to the scallops?
Marinating the scallops briefly in the butter and lemon mixture or adding herbs and spices can enhance their flavor.
What type of baking pan is best for broiling scallops?
A shallow, broiler-safe baking pan or sheet ensures even cooking and allows the scallops to brown nicely.
Are broiled scallops healthy?
Yes, scallops are a good source of lean protein and are low in fat. Using moderate amounts of butter and seasoning keeps the dish flavorful and health-conscious.
Conclusion
Broiled scallops offer a simple yet sophisticated addition to your culinary repertoire. Their quick preparation and delightful flavor make them suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. Experiment with different seasonings and sides to create a personalized dining experience that showcases this versatile seafood delicacy.
Broiled Scallops
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of Broiled Scallops, a quick and elegant seafood dish that takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish. With a golden-brown crust and a tender texture, these scallops make a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds bay scallops
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven to high broil.
- Prepare the Scallops: Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Place them in a shallow baking pan.
- Season: Drizzle melted butter and lemon juice over the scallops. Sprinkle evenly with garlic salt.
- Broil: Place the pan under the preheated broiler and broil for 6-8 minutes, or until the scallops turn golden brown and opaque.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. For extra richness, serve with melted butter on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic salt.
- Sea scallops can be used instead of bay scallops but may require 1-2 extra minutes of cooking.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain a tender texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
