Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that brings together the rich flavors of crispy bacon and tender scallops, all enveloped in a luscious lemon butter sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy date night at home, offering a delightful balance of savory and tangy flavors that will impress any seafood lover. The combination of textures from the crispy bacon and silky scallops makes this dish a true standout at the dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe for Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. Firstly, the flavor combination is simply divine: the salty, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet, delicate scallops, while the lemon butter sauce adds a bright, zesty finish that elevates the dish. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Plus, it fits beautifully into a low-carb or keto lifestyle, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure perfect bacon scallops, here are some handy tips and tricks:
- Use dry scallops if possible, as they sear better and have a firmer texture.
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the scallops to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
- Wrap each scallop snugly but not too tightly with bacon to allow for even cooking.
- For an extra flavor boost, add minced garlic to the lemon butter sauce.
- If you’re short on time, you can use precooked bacon; just crisp it in the pan before adding the scallops.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare elements of this dish in advance to save time:
- The lemon butter sauce can be made up to a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- You can wrap the scallops in bacon a few hours before cooking. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to sear them.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste:
- Swap out the lemon for lime for a different citrus flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce for extra depth.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce or wrap the scallops with spicy bacon.
- Use prosciutto instead of bacon for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce on a warm plate to keep the dish at its best temperature. Pair it with a light salad or steamed asparagus for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Drizzle a bit of the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio that complements the seafood beautifully. A refreshing cocktail such as a gin and tonic with a hint of citrus would also work well. As for side dishes, a light risotto or garlic mashed potatoes would be perfect to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce. For dessert, a light sorbet or panna cotta would end the meal on a delightful note.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The scallops may lose some texture upon reheating, but they can be warmed gently in a skillet over low heat. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked scallops; however, it’s best to consume them fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Equipment Needed
To make Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce, you’ll need:
- A large skillet (preferably cast iron or non-stick)
- Tongs for flipping the scallops
- A whisk for the sauce
- A cutting board and knife for preparation
If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any large sauté pan will work, just ensure it can withstand high heat.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, consider these adaptations:
- To make this dish dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative for the sauce.
- For gluten-free diners, ensure that the bacon is certified gluten-free.
- To make it vegan, substitute the scallops with large pieces of cauliflower, seared to mimic the texture, and use vegan bacon.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, you might want to add fresh asparagus or peas to the dish for a seasonal touch. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted butternut squash as a side to complement the flavors of the scallops and bacon beautifully.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What if I can’t find bacon?
You can use pancetta or even turkey bacon as a substitute, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
How long do I cook the scallops?
Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque in the center.
How To Make Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that brings together the rich flavors of crispy bacon and tender scallops, all enveloped in a luscious lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 large sea scallops
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the bacon-wrapped scallops, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are golden.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Warm for an additional minute.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 268Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 64mgSodium 676mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 1gSugar 8gProtein 15g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is an excellent way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. This dish not only showcases the delightful combination of flavors but also brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!
