### **Introduction**
Garlic butter baked scallops are a luxurious, yet simple dish that combines tender, sweet scallops with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. Baked to perfection, the scallops absorb the buttery goodness while remaining juicy and flavorful. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course and is a favorite for special occasions, seafood lovers, or anyone seeking an elegant, easy-to-make seafood recipe.
### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Scallops are a staple in coastal cuisine around the world, especially in regions with access to fresh seafood like the Mediterranean, North America, and Asia. Garlic butter, on the other hand, is a classic flavor profile in many culinary traditions, particularly in French and Italian cuisine, where butter is used generously to enhance the taste of seafood. Combining the two—garlic butter and scallops—creates a flavor-rich dish that reflects the Italian and French culinary love for both seafood and aromatic sauces. Garlic butter baked scallops have become a popular dish in fine dining and home cooking alike due to their simplicity and impressive presentation.
### **Ingredients Quantity**
For **4 servings** of garlic butter baked scallops, you will need:
– 1 lb (450g) fresh sea scallops, patted dry
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and a touch of flavor)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
### **Optional Additions**
– A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
– 1/4 cup white wine (for extra flavor in the butter sauce)
– A drizzle of truffle oil (for a luxurious twist)
– Chopped chives or green onions (for an extra layer of freshness)
– A few tablespoons of breadcrumbs (for added crunch on top)
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Pat the Scallops Dry**: To ensure a good sear and prevent excess liquid when baking, make sure to thoroughly pat the scallops dry before preparing them.
2. **Don’t Overcook**: Scallops cook quickly and can become tough and rubbery if overcooked. Keep a close eye on them while baking, aiming for a firm but tender texture.
3. **Use Fresh Scallops**: The best results come from using fresh, high-quality scallops. If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely and dry them well before cooking.
4. **Even Coating**: Ensure the scallops are evenly coated in the garlic butter mixture for consistent flavor and moisture.
5. **Broil at the End**: For a golden, slightly crispy finish, broil the scallops for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the scallops from sticking.
2. **Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce**: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper to the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. **Arrange the Scallops**: Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each scallop is coated.
4. **Bake the Scallops**: Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are opaque and easily flake with a fork. If you’d like a crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
5. **Serve**: Once baked, garnish the scallops with extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
### **Description**
Garlic butter baked scallops are a melt-in-your-mouth seafood delicacy. Each scallop is perfectly tender and infused with the rich, savory garlic butter sauce that adds a luxurious depth of flavor. The subtle sweetness of the scallops pairs wonderfully with the garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, creating a mouthwatering dish that is both elegant and comforting. The crisped top adds texture, while the fresh parsley garnish offers a refreshing contrast.
### **Nutritional Information** (per serving)
– Calories: 280-320 kcal
– Protein: 28-30g
– Carbohydrates: 3-5g
– Fat: 20-22g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sodium: 450-500mg
– Cholesterol: 70-90mg
*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.*
### **Conclusion**
Garlic butter baked scallops are a stunning and easy-to-make dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh scallops. This dish is both simple and sophisticated, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The combination of buttery garlic sauce and tender scallops offers a satisfying, indulgent experience with every bite.
### **Recommendation and Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
For a lighter, yet equally delicious version, consider using less butter or opting for a healthier fat, such as olive oil. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese and pair the scallops with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Embrace healthful indulgence by savoring the luxurious flavors while keeping the dish lighter and fresher. Garlic butter baked scallops are a great way to enjoy a seafood treat without compromising on taste or nutrition.