This Jumbo Scallops recipe is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the ocean’s bounty straight to your dinner table. Tender, juicy scallops are seared to golden perfection, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. Paired with a vibrant lemon-butter sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a romantic dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe showcases the elegance of seafood while being surprisingly easy to prepare.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this jumbo scallops recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply divine; the scallops are seared to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a buttery, tender inside. The lemon-butter sauce adds a zesty brightness that elevates the dish without overshadowing the scallops. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to execute, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re following a low-carb or protein-rich diet, this dish fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, offering a healthy and delicious option that feels indulgent.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your scallops turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips and tricks. First, make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking; moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use a hot skillet (preferably cast iron) and don’t overcrowd the pan—this allows for that beautiful caramelization. If you want extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the butter sauce. Lastly, finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for that extra zing!
Make Ahead Tips
For those busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts, you can make elements of this recipe in advance. The lemon-butter sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before serving. If you plan to marinate your scallops, do it for no more than 30 minutes prior to cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. Seared scallops are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to play around with this jumbo scallops recipe! You can substitute the lemon-butter sauce with a garlic-wine sauce or even a spicy chili-infused oil for a kick. For a twist, try adding a splash of coconut milk to the butter sauce for a tropical flair. If you’re looking for a different cooking method, jumbo scallops can also be grilled for a smoky flavor. Just remember to grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
How to Serve
Once your scallops are perfectly cooked, presentation is key. Serve them on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. Drizzle the lemon-butter sauce generously over the scallops, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. A lemon wedge on the side adds a touch of elegance and allows guests to add more zest if they wish.
Pairing Suggestions
For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the scallops beautifully. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, consider a refreshing gin and tonic or a light mojito to enhance the seafood flavors. As for side dishes, a fresh arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette or a side of garlic mashed potatoes would be perfect accompaniments. For dessert, a light sorbet or panna cotta would round out the meal nicely.
How to Store
To store any leftovers, allow the scallops to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze them, ensure they are well-sealed and consume within a month for the best quality. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) for optimal heat retention and searing. A spatula and a pair of tongs will also come in handy for flipping the scallops. If you wish to make the lemon-butter sauce, a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl will suffice for melting the butter.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as olive oil or vegan butter. For a nut-free version, ensure that any additional garnishes or sauces do not include nuts. If you prefer a vegan option, consider using marinated tofu or king oyster mushrooms sliced to resemble scallops.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or mint into your lemon-butter sauce for an added burst of flavor. In the fall, a sprinkle of nutmeg or using seasonal vegetables like butternut squash as a side can bring warmth to the dish. In winter, you might swap out fresh herbs for dried and add roasted garlic to the sauce for a heartier flavor profile.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute frozen scallops for fresh? Yes, just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- What is the best cooking time for jumbo scallops? Typically, about 2-3 minutes on each side is sufficient, depending on their thickness.
- Can I use a different type of seafood? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for shrimp or fish fillets with some adjustments to cooking times.
How To Make jumbo scallops recipe
Jumbo Scallops
This Jumbo Scallops recipe is a delightful culinary adventure that brings the ocean’s bounty straight to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of jumbo scallops
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by patting the jumbo scallops dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crust.
- Flip the scallops using tongs and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted butter and garlic.
- Once cooked, remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a serving plate.
- In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine, then pour the sauce over the scallops.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 250Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 62mgSodium 835mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 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
In conclusion, this jumbo scallops recipe is a delightful and elegant dish that brings the best of the sea right to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to impress guests, this recipe guarantees a delicious meal that celebrates the natural flavors of scallops. So don your apron, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the ocean!
