Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Introduction

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious and delicious seafood dish that will elevate any meal. With their tender, juicy texture and rich, savory flavor, these scallops are coated in a mouth-watering garlic butter sauce, then baked to perfection for an easy yet impressive dish. Whether you’re planning a special dinner, celebrating a holiday, or simply want to treat yourself to something indulgent, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a fantastic choice. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Special occasions or romantic dinners
• Holiday gatherings and festive meals
• A luxurious treat for seafood lovers
• Quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Impressing guests at dinner parties

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops will become your new favorite dish:

• Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce infuses the scallops with a rich and savory flavor, making every bite melt in your mouth.
• Tender and Juicy: Baking the scallops in butter ensures they remain tender and moist, rather than becoming dry or tough.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: With no added carbs or heavy breading, this recipe is perfect for those following low-carb or keto diets.
• Halal-Friendly: The recipe is completely halal, using no pork, bacon, or alcohol, so it’s suitable for all dietary restrictions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 4g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh or frozen scallops, thawed and patted dry
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Scallops: Fresh or frozen scallops work great for this recipe, but it’s important to make sure they are patted dry before baking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the flavor.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is the key to creating a rich and indulgent garlic butter sauce that coats the scallops without being too salty.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the delicate taste of the scallops.
• Lemon: Both lemon zest and juice add a bright, citrusy kick that balances the richness of the butter and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild, herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients.
• Red Pepper Flakes: These add a subtle heat, but you can omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

Prepare the Scallops:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will ensure the scallops bake quickly and evenly, creating a nice golden crust on top.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the scallops from sticking to the dish during baking.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
5. Mix in the Lemon: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and dried parsley (or fresh parsley) into the butter-garlic mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Season: Add the black pepper, sea salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Assemble the Dish:

7. Arrange the Scallops: Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Ensure the scallops are evenly spaced and not overcrowded.
8. Pour the Garlic Butter: Spoon the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops, ensuring each scallop is coated in the flavorful butter mixture.
9. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and slightly golden on top. Be careful not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery if baked for too long.

Serve and Enjoy:

10. Garnish and Serve: Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of extra citrus flavor.
11. Pair with Sides: These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are perfect served with side dishes like roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops can be served in various ways to suit different occasions:

• With Pasta: Serve the scallops over a bed of creamy pasta or linguine for a sophisticated seafood pasta dish.
• With Rice: Pair the scallops with a side of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the scallops as an elegant starter at a dinner party. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an impressive presentation.
• With Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is the perfect light side to complement the richness of the scallops.
• For a Low-Carb Meal: Serve the scallops with roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.

Additional Tips for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Here are some tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops turn out perfect every time:

• Pat the Scallops Dry: Before baking, be sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring the scallops cook properly and don’t become waterlogged.
• Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly and should be baked just until they are opaque in the center. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, butter, and lemon will enhance the flavors in the dish. If possible, use fresh scallops rather than frozen for the best results.
• Optional Topping: For added flavor and texture, consider sprinkling a little grated parmesan cheese over the scallops before baking. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, golden crust on top.
• Customize the Garlic Butter: You can add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the garlic butter for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a unique twist.

Recipe Variations of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Here are some variations of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops that you can try:

1. Lemon Garlic Herb Scallops: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil to the garlic butter sauce for a herby twist on the classic recipe.
2. Spicy Cajun Scallops: Spice things up by adding Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika to the garlic butter mixture.
3. Parmesan Crusted Scallops: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top of the scallops before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: Wrap each scallop in halal turkey bacon or beef bacon before baking for added flavor and texture.
5. Honey Garlic Scallops: Add a teaspoon of honey to the garlic butter sauce for a subtle sweetness that complements the garlic.
6. Miso Butter Scallops: Add a tablespoon of white miso paste to the garlic butter for a savory, umami flavor.
7. Chili Lime Scallops: Mix lime zest and chili powder into the garlic butter for a zesty, spicy kick.
8. Garlic Butter Scallops with Asparagus: Add fresh asparagus spears to the baking dish for a complete, one-pan meal.
9. Coconut Garlic Butter Scallops: Stir in some coconut milk or shredded coconut to the garlic butter for a tropical twist.
10. Saffron Garlic Scallops: Add a few threads of saffron to the garlic butter sauce for a luxurious and aromatic flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Freezing: You can freeze the baked scallops for up to 1 month. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
• Storage: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Baked Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Here are some special equipment items you might need to make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

• Baking Dish: A shallow baking dish or oven-safe skillet is perfect for baking the scallops evenly.
• Garlic Press: A garlic press makes mincing garlic easy and ensures an even distribution of garlic flavor in the butter sauce.
• Citrus Zester: A zester or microplane is great for extracting fresh lemon zest without the bitterness of the pith.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush helps you evenly coat the scallops with the garlic butter mixture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfecting the garlic butter sauce and seasoning.

FAQ Section about Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
   Yes, frozen scallops can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.
2. How do I know when the scallops are done?
   The scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and have a light golden brown color on top. Be careful not to overcook them.
3. Can I use a different type of butter?
   Yes, you can use clarified butter (ghee) or vegan butter as a substitute for regular butter.
4. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for a complete meal.
5. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add more red pepper flakes or incorporate chopped fresh chili peppers into the garlic butter mixture for an extra kick.

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Conclusion of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a fantastic way to enjoy seafood in an easy, elegant, and flavorful dish. With their buttery, garlicky sauce and tender texture, these scallops are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings for something indulgent. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion. Enjoy them on their own or pair them with your favorite sides for a complete, delightful meal!