Sea Scallops

Placopecten magellanicus Seafood, Shellfish

Sea Scallops Seafood, Shellfish

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood, Shellfish

The Forktionary Angle

"The "muscle" we eat is the adductor muscle, responsible for opening and closing the scallop's shell."

Definition

Large, sweet bivalve mollusks found in colder ocean waters, known for their tender texture and delicate, slightly sweet flavor.

Fresh Storage 1-2 days (refrigerated, on ice)
Glycogen Content High glycogen levels contribute to their natural sweetness.
Peak Season October to March

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sea Scallops are:

Sweet delicate mild slightly briny

Chef’s Secret

Pat scallops *extremely* dry before searing. Moisture prevents a good crust. A super-hot pan and a quick sear are key.

Best Substitutes

Bay Scallops

use more, smaller

Shrimp

for texture, different flavor
Ratio 1:1

Monkfish

for meaty texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose "dry" scallops (untreated), avoid "wet" scallops (soaked in phosphates). Look for firm, opaque, creamy-white flesh.

Recipes Using Sea Scallops

Presentation Grilling Seafood Technique

Parmesan Breaded Scallops With Lemon Garnish

Savor the clean, refreshing taste of summer with these perfectly grilled Parmesan-breaded scallops! Weber's Big Book of Grilling inspired this recipe, elevated with vibrant lemon-parsley garnish. Quick prep, incredible flavor – the ideal weeknight meal or elegant appetizer.

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Time To Make Time To Make Preparation Shellfish

Baked Scallops With Lime

This vibrant and flavorful Baked Scallops with Lime recipe is inspired by Runner's World magazine, offering a lighter take on their original recipe. Enjoy juicy, perfectly baked scallops bursting with zesty lime and a hint of white wine (optional). A quick and healthy weeknight meal perfect for runners and anyone who appreciates fresh seafood.

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Main Dish Easy Appetizers 3 Steps Or Less

Baked Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops

Indulge in these succulent, bacon-wrapped sea scallops! This easy recipe, perfected at a New Year's party, creates a decadent and satisfying meal. Perfectly seared scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, bursting with flavor from a zesty lemon-wine sauce. A show-stopping appetizer or elegant main course, ready in under an hour!

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Low Carb High Calcium High In Something Very Low Carbs

Alouette Bacon Wrapped Scallops And Shrimp

Impress your guests with this elegant and delicious Alouette Bacon-Wrapped Scallops & Shrimp appetizer! Perfect for summer gatherings, these succulent bites combine sweet scallops and shrimp with savory bacon and creamy Alouette cheese for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Time To Make Course Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Balsamic Glazed Scallops

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this restaurant-quality Balsamic Glazed Scallops recipe! Inspired by coastal living, this dish features succulent scallops, perfectly seared and then tossed in a rich, sweet, and tangy balsamic glaze. Quick, easy, and impressive, it's the perfect recipe for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Find frozen scallops at your local Trader Joe's (or your favorite grocery store) and get ready to impress! Serve over fluffy jasmine rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Course Asian Seafood Scallops

Beef And Scallops

Experience a whirlwind of flavor with this incredibly quick and easy Beef and Scallops Stir-Fry! Perfectly seared beef and succulent scallops dance in a vibrant, light sauce – no heavy saucing here! Serve this restaurant-quality dish over fluffy rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

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Equipment Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Relive a classic! This recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Scallops is a nostalgic trip back to 1982, inspired by a Bon Appetit recipe. Succulent scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this elegant and surprisingly simple dish!

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Side Dishes 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Low Carb

Bacon Wrapped Scallops With Cream Sauce

Indulge in this decadent recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with a rich and savory Maple Cream Sauce! This gourmet dish elevates simple scallops with crispy bacon and a sweet and salty sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Inspired by a classic comfort food recipe, this updated version is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Healthy Low In Something Preparation Low Fat

Basil Scallop Linguine With Artichokes

Indulge in this elegant Basil Scallop Linguine with Artichokes! This recipe, inspired by Naidre Miller's "Something Tastes Funny," creates a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Sweet scallops meet tangy tomatoes and artichokes in a fragrant basil sauce, elevated with a hint of red pepper and toasted pine nuts. A simple yet sophisticated meal, ready in under an hour!

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Preparation Stove Top Dietary Main Ingredient

Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops Served On Creamy Brie Sauce

Indulge in a taste of heaven with this elegant and surprisingly quick recipe for bacon-wrapped sea scallops, nestled on a bed of creamy brie sauce. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer (one scallop per person) or a stunning entree, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The rich, salty bacon complements the sweet sea scallops beautifully, while the creamy brie sauce adds a touch of decadence. Prepare for a culinary masterpiece in just minutes!

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Scallops Equipment Time To Make Scallops

Baked Scallops With Bacon Sauteed Apples And Cider Sauce

Dive into a symphony of flavors with this irresistible recipe! Perfectly seared scallops are topped with crispy bacon and served alongside sweet and tangy sauteed apples in a rich cider sauce. The smoky bacon beautifully complements the delicate scallops and the sweet apples, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This elegant yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

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Scallops Dietary Low Carb Main Ingredient

Baked Scallops Waldo

Indulge in this elegant Baked Scallops Waldo recipe! Plump scallops are bathed in a rich sherry sauce, enhanced by sautéed mushrooms and onions (or scallions for a milder flavor). This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion!

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