Blackened Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines the rich, sweet flavor of scallops with a robust, spicy crust. This cooking technique is rooted in Cajun cuisine, where the scallops are coated in a blend of bold spices and then seared to perfection in a hot skillet. The result is a beautifully charred exterior that locks in the tender, juicy sweetness of the scallops. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party, showcasing the versatility and appeal of this exquisite seafood.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this blackened scallops recipe for several reasons. Firstly, the flavor profile is simply sensational — the blend of spices creates a smoky, spicy crust that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the scallops. Secondly, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also protein-rich and low in carbohydrates, fitting seamlessly into many dietary lifestyles, including keto and paleo. Lastly, the vibrant presentation of the dish makes it a showstopper, impressing both family and guests alike.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your blackened scallops turn out perfectly, here are some useful tips and tricks:
- Dry the scallops thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve a better sear.
- Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed frying pan to get that perfect char.
- Make sure your pan is very hot before adding the scallops. This helps create that signature blackened crust.
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the scallops just before serving.
- If you want to add a bit of heat, you can adjust the cayenne pepper in the spice mix to your taste.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who like to prepare in advance, here are some make-ahead tips:
- You can prepare the spice blend ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a month.
- If you’re short on time, you can clean and dry the scallops a few hours before cooking, keeping them covered in the refrigerator.
- Serve the scallops with a simple salad dressing or sauce that can be made ahead, allowing for a quick assembly at mealtime.
Recipe Variations
There are many ways to put your own spin on this blackened scallops recipe:
- For a different flavor profile, try using a mix of smoked paprika and chili powder instead of traditional Cajun spices.
- If you’re looking for a different cooking method, you can grill the scallops for a smoky flavor or bake them in the oven at high heat.
- Experiment with different types of seafood, such as shrimp or fish fillets, using the same blackening technique.
How to Serve
To serve your blackened scallops, plate them on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a fresh arugula salad. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, and add a wedge of lemon for a pop of color and brightness. Drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil or a homemade garlic butter sauce over the top can elevate the dish even further.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which complements the richness of the scallops beautifully. A light cocktail like a gin and tonic or a fresh mojito would also pair well. As for side dishes, consider serving with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a zesty citrus quinoa salad. For dessert, a light sorbet or a fruit tart would provide a refreshing finish to the meal.
How to Store
If you have leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to overcook. Blackened scallops do not freeze well due to their delicate texture, so it’s best to consume them fresh.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed frying pan. If you don’t have cast iron, a stainless steel skillet will suffice, but ensure it’s well-heated.
- A spatula for flipping the scallops.
- A small bowl for mixing the spice blend.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe allergen-friendly, you can easily swap out the spices to avoid any known allergens. For a vegan version, replace scallops with large mushrooms, such as portobello caps, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. To make it gluten-free, ensure your spice mixture is free from any gluten-containing ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
Depending on the season, consider incorporating seasonal ingredients. In the summer, serve the scallops with fresh corn salsa or avocado. In fall, pair them with roasted butternut squash or a pumpkin puree for a cozy touch. In winter, a hearty root vegetable mash can complement the dish nicely.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.
- What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? A stainless steel skillet will work, but ensure it’s well-heated and oiled properly.
- How long should I cook the scallops? Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size, until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
- Can I substitute the spices? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
How To Make blackened scallops recipe
Blackened Scallops
Blackened Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines the rich, sweet flavor of scallops with a robust, spicy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large sea scallops
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the scallops.
- Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, until a dark crust forms.
- Flip the scallops using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until they are opaque and slightly firm.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 198Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 46mgSodium 832mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 24g
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
This blackened scallops recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a gourmet seafood dish in the comfort of your home. With its quick preparation, bold flavors, and elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices and sides to make it your own. Enjoy creating this delightful dish and savor every bite!
