Seafood | Low Calorie High Protein Keto Pescatarian Gluten Free

Sea Scallops

Placopecten magellanicus Allergens: Shellfish
Sea Scallops

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Pectinidae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Marine Bivalve

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

Bivalve mollusks prized for their sweet, delicate flavor and tender, firm texture when cooked.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Briny, Umami
TextureTender, Firm, Succulent
AromaMildly marine, Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Fresh Storage

1-2 days (refrigerated, on ice)

Glycogen Content

High glycogen levels contribute to their natural sweetness.

Peak Season

October to March

Nutrition Facts

Per 85g (3 oz)
Calories88 kcal
Total Fat0.7 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol33 mg
Protein17 g
Total Carbohydrate3.1 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium50 mg
Iron0.4 mg
Potassium300 mg

Chef’s Secret

Pat scallops very dry before searing in a hot pan to achieve a perfect golden crust. Don't overcrowd the pan.

Substitutions

Best Match

Shrimp

1:1

Similar delicate texture and mild sweetness, good for most applications.

Cod

1:1

Flaky white fish, works well for a milder, less sweet option.

Artichoke Hearts (canned/marinated)

1:1

Vegan option offering a similar "bite" and slight brininess.

Chicken Breast (sliced)

1:1

For a non-seafood, high-protein alternative with firm texture.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, translucent scallops with a mild, sweet smell. Avoid milky liquid. "Dry" scallops are preferred.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon garlic butter white wine asparagus bacon truffle risotto.

Recipes Using Sea Scallops

Bacon Wrapped Scallops image 189
Course Time To Make Preparation Seafood

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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Bacon Wrapped Scallops With Cream Sauce image 118
30 Minutes Or Less Seafood Dietary Course

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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Balsamic Glazed Scallops image 144
Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Time To Make

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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Beef And Scallops image 219
Seafood Shellfish Steak Preparation

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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Parmesan Breaded Scallops With Lemon Garnish image 176
Dietary Technique Dietary Easy

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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