Broiled Scallops Recipe
Scallops are a true delicacy of the sea, known for their sweet, tender meat that cooks quickly and pairs well with a variety of flavors. Broiling scallops is an excellent method to achieve a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing broiled scallops, perfect for an elegant dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for color and a hint of spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Scallops: Start by preheating your broiler. If your scallops have a small, tough side muscle attached, gently remove it. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely under the broiler. Moisture can prevent them from getting that desired golden-brown crust.
- Marinate the Scallops: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Place the scallops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the scallops marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This step enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness while adding a layer of bright, citrusy flavor.
- Prepare the Broiling Pan: While the scallops are marinating, prepare your broiling pan by lining it with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup easier. If you have a wire rack that fits in your broiler pan, use it to elevate the scallops slightly, allowing air to circulate around them for more even cooking. Alternatively, you can place the scallops directly on the foil-lined pan.
- Broil the Scallops: Arrange the marinated scallops on the prepared pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Place the pan under the broiler, about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil the scallops for 5-7 minutes, depending on their size. Halfway through the broiling time, carefully flip the scallops to ensure even cooking. The scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, with a golden-brown crust on top.
- Serve: Remove the scallops from the broiler and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Broiled scallops pair beautifully with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a buttery risotto.
- Tips for Success:
- Quality Matters: Use the freshest scallops you can find. Fresh scallops will have a sweet, ocean-like aroma and should be slightly firm to the touch.
- Avoid Overcooking: Scallops cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked scallops can become rubbery.
- Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe uses a simple garlic-lemon marinade, feel free to experiment with other flavors. For example, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or incorporate a splash of white wine into the marinade.
Conclusion
Broiled scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The key to success lies in using fresh, high-quality scallops and watching them carefully under the broiler to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or the main course, broiled scallops are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite side dishes and a crisp white wine for a meal that’s as delicious as it is sophisticated.
