Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Looking for a delicious and easy seafood recipe? These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a must-try! The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich and flavorful dish that will impress your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh scallops
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• Rinse and pat dry the scallops.
• In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and melted butter.
• Place the scallops in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
• Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until scallops are cooked through.
• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Information:

– Calories: 250

– Protein: 25g

– Fat: 15g

– Carbohydrates: 2g

Enjoy these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops for a tasty and satisfying meal that your whole family will love! #seafoodrecipe #deliciousdish #garlicbutterscallops

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use frozen scallops instead of fresh ones?
  A: Yes, you can use frozen scallops, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Q: Can I substitute olive oil for butter?
  A: While butter adds richness, you can use olive oil for a healthier option.
• Q: How do I know when the scallops are cooked through?
  A: Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch when cooked.
• Q: Can I add other herbs to the garlic butter mixture?
  A: Feel free to customize the flavors with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• Q: What sides go well with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?
  A: Serve with rice, pasta, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Q: Can I broil the scallops instead of baking them?
  A: Yes, you can broil the scallops for a quicker cooking time, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Q: How can I enhance the garlic flavor in this dish?
  A: Sauté the garlic in butter before adding it to the scallops for a more intense garlic taste.
• Q: Are scallops high in protein?
  A: Yes, scallops are a good source of protein, making them a nutritious seafood option.
• Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
  A: You can use salted butter, but adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
• Q: Can I grill the scallops instead of baking them?
  A: Grilling the scallops will add a smoky flavor, just make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the scallops before serving for a burst of freshness.
• For a crispy texture, broil the scallops for the last few minutes of cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon to change up the flavor profile.
• Serve the scallops over a bed of creamy risotto for a luxurious meal.
• For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the scallops before baking.
• Use a seafood stock to deglaze the baking dish after cooking for a flavorful sauce.
• Pair the scallops with a glass of crisp white wine for a perfect dining experience.
• To prevent overcooking, check the scallops after 15 minutes in the oven to ensure they are done to your liking.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed nuts for a crunchy topping.
• Double the garlic butter mixture for an extra indulgent taste on the scallops.

Expert Secrets:

• Patting the scallops dry before cooking will help them achieve a nice sear in the oven.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for baking to ensure even heat distribution and perfect cooking.
• For a golden crust, sear the scallops in a hot pan before transferring to the baking dish.
• Let the scallops marinate in the garlic butter mixture for a few minutes before baking for maximum flavor infusion.
• Add a splash of white wine to the baking dish for a touch of acidity and complexity in the dish.
• Grate some Parmesan cheese over the scallops before baking for a cheesy crust that adds depth of flavor.
• For a Mediterranean twist, sprinkle some chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes over the scallops before baking.
• Clean the scallops thoroughly by removing the side muscle before cooking for a more tender texture.
• For a low-carb option, skip the breadcrumbs and serve the scallops over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles.
• Garnish the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory garlic butter.