Baked Bay Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that showcases the sweet and tender texture of these small shellfish. Lightly seasoned and baked to perfection with a crispy topping, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, impressing your family and friends alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This baked bay scallops recipe is a true winner for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavors are incredibly vibrant—think buttery, garlicky goodness paired with the subtle sweetness of the scallops. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to for both novice and seasoned cooks who want a quick yet impressive dish. Plus, it fits beautifully into a variety of diets, including gluten-free and low-carb lifestyles, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your baked bay scallops turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips and tricks:
- Choose Fresh Scallops: Opt for fresh bay scallops instead of frozen when possible. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Overbake: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. A cooking time of 10-12 minutes at 400°F is usually ideal.
- Add Flavor: Enhance the dish by including fresh herbs like parsley or thyme in the breadcrumb topping for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a Hot Baking Dish: Preheat your baking dish for a few minutes in the oven before adding the scallops to promote even cooking and browning.
Make Ahead Tips
For those looking to streamline the cooking process, you can prep certain components ahead of time:
- Prep the Scallops: Clean and season the scallops a few hours in advance, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Make the Topping: Combine breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and melted butter ahead of time and refrigerate. Just before baking, sprinkle it over the scallops.
- Assembly: You can assemble the entire dish (scallops and topping) a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe with these variations:
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add grated Parmesan or crumbled feta to the breadcrumb topping for a cheesy kick.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the topping for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill, basil, or chives to change the flavor profile of the dish.
How to Serve
Baked bay scallops are best served hot out of the oven. For an elegant presentation, place them in individual ramekins or a large serving dish garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Pair them with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A drizzle of melted butter over the top can add a luxurious touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the sweetness of the scallops beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, try a refreshing gin and tonic with a slice of lemon. For sides, consider serving with garlic bread, a quinoa salad, or roasted asparagus, and finish off the meal with a light fruit sorbet for dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the scallops before baking—just ensure they are well-sealed. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, but note that they are best enjoyed fresh.
Equipment Needed
You will need a baking dish, preferably a glass or ceramic one, to ensure even cooking. A mixing bowl and measuring cups/spoons will also be required. If you prefer a crispy topping, a broiler can be used for the last few minutes of cooking.
Dietary Adaptations
To adapt this recipe for various dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter for the melted butter in the topping.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is inherently nut-free, but always double-check all ingredient labels to be safe.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, you can incorporate fresh seasonal vegetables like asparagus or peas into the dish for added nutrition and color. In the fall, try a topping with pumpkin seeds for a seasonal twist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I substitute bay scallops for other types of scallops?
Yes, you can use larger sea scallops, but adjust the cooking time as they will take longer to cook through.
How long should I bake the scallops?
Bake for 10-12 minutes at 400°F. The scallops should be opaque and firm when done.
What can I do if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can crush crackers, use crushed cornflakes, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option.
How To Make baked bay scallops recipe
Baked Bay Scallops
Baked Bay Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that showcases the sweet and tender texture of these small shellfish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bay scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or other herbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Arrange the bay scallops in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 290Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 62mgSodium 1030mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 27g
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
Baked bay scallops are a delightful and easy dish that can elevate any meal. With their delicate flavor and satisfying texture, they are perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special dinner at home. As you explore this recipe, feel free to make it your own with variations and adaptations that suit your tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy the journey of cooking and savor every bite of this delicious seafood dish!
