Baked Scallops Recipe

Scallops: The star of the dish, providing a tender and slightly sweet seafood flavor.

Breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy texture to the topping; can be plain or seasoned.

Parmesan cheese: Offers a rich, nutty flavor that complements the scallops.

Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the topping ingredients together.

Lemon juice: Provides a bright, acidic contrast to the richness of the scallops and butter.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory depth to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and complexity.

Parsley: Fresh and vibrant, it adds color and a mild herbal note to the finished dish.

When preparing scallops, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels before cooking. This step is crucial because excess moisture can prevent the breadcrumb mixture from adhering properly and achieving a crispy, golden-brown finish. Additionally, using freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled juice will enhance the dish's flavor with a bright, zesty note.

• Scallops - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for scallops in baked dishes.

• Plain or seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.

• Grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty, nutty flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• Melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the dish while adding a slightly different flavor profile.

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can brighten up the dish in the same way.

• Minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a bit of umami flavor.

• Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used to maintain the peppery flavor without altering the color of the dish.

• Chopped fresh parsley - Substitute with chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, vibrant flavor that can complement the other ingredients similarly to parsley.

• Allow the baked scallops to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the breadcrumb topping soggy.
• Transfer the cooled scallops to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper between them to maintain the integrity of the breadcrumb mixture.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, consume within this period.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scallops in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the scallops to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the scallops in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat using the same method as refrigerated scallops, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Avoid microwaving the scallops, as this can result in uneven heating and a rubbery texture.

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the baked scallops in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Use a skillet on medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the scallops in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated evenly.

• For a quick method, use the microwave. Place the scallops on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the scallops in the basket in a single layer and heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a gentle steam, place the scallops in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until they are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents overcooking.

• Oven: Used to bake the scallops at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Paper towels: Utilized to pat the scallops dry after rinsing them.

• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

• Baking dish: Used to arrange the scallops in a single layer for baking.

• Measuring cups: Required to measure out the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves efficiently.

• Knife: Used to chop the fresh parsley for garnishing.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the parsley and other ingredients.

• Spoon: Useful for mixing the breadcrumb mixture and sprinkling it over the scallops.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper ahead of time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Dry scallops thoroughly: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they bake properly and the topping adheres well.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the breadcrumb mixture using a food processor for even blending.