This Scallops and Bacon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly balances the sweetness of tender scallops with the savory, crispy goodness of bacon. With its quick cooking time and gourmet appeal, this dish is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a luxurious weeknight meal. The combination of textures and tastes will leave you craving more, making it a must-try for seafood lovers and bacon enthusiasts alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this scallops and bacon recipe for several reasons. First, the rich, smoky flavor of the bacon complements the delicate, slightly sweet taste of the scallops, creating a harmonious dish that’s bursting with flavor. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; it takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy cooks or those who want to whip up an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re following a low-carb or paleo diet, this dish fits seamlessly into various lifestyle choices, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Tips and Tricks
1. Searing Technique: For perfectly seared scallops, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the scallops. This will help achieve that beautiful golden crust.
2. Pat Dry: Always pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking; moisture can hinder browning.
3. Bacon Choices: Choose thick-cut bacon for added texture and flavor. It will hold up better during cooking and offer a satisfying bite.
4. Finish with Butter: A pat of butter added at the end of cooking can elevate the dish, adding richness and a glossy finish.
5. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the bacon ahead of time by cooking it until crispy and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the scallops, it’s best to cook them fresh, but you can marinate them in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for about 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor. This marinade will stay fresh for up to two days in the fridge.
Recipe Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the bacon while cooking for an added aromatic flavor.
- Different Proteins: Swap scallops for shrimp or chicken for a similar dish with a different protein.
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace scallops with grilled mushrooms, such as portobello or king oyster, and use vegan bacon.
How to Serve
Serve the scallops and bacon on a warm plate, ideally over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside sautéed greens like spinach or asparagus for a complete meal. Drizzle with a simple lemon vinaigrette or balsamic reduction for an elegant touch. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a gin and tonic with fresh herbs would enhance the dish’s flavors. As for sides, consider a light salad or roasted vegetables, and for dessert, a lemon sorbet would provide a refreshing finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While scallops can be reheated, be cautious to avoid overcooking them again. For best results, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of scallops may change upon thawing.
Equipment Needed
- A cast-iron skillet or non-stick frying pan is ideal for searing scallops and bacon.
- Tongs for flipping the scallops and bacon.
- Paper towels for drying the scallops.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the butter or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. For a gluten-free version, ensure your bacon is labeled gluten-free, and use gluten-free seasonings. For a vegan adaptation, use plant-based bacon alternatives and substitute scallops with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add fresh peas or asparagus to the dish for a seasonal touch. In the fall, consider serving with a pumpkin purée or roasted butternut squash for a warm, comforting flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- What can I substitute for bacon? Turkey bacon or pancetta can be used as alternatives.
- How long do I cook scallops? Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on their size.
How To Make scallops and bacon recipe
Scallops and Bacon
This Scallops and Bacon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly balances the sweetness of tender scallops with the savory, crispy goodness of bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh scallops
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the scallops by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- If using, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking for added richness.
- Crumble the crispy bacon over the seared scallops, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 300Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 72mgSodium 1157mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 30g
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 scallops and bacon recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. With its simple yet sophisticated flavors, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and make it your own. Enjoy the cooking process and savor every bite of this exquisite dish!
