Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – Simple & Delicious!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – Simple & Delicious! : If you’re a seafood lover, scallops are likely one of your favorite foods. They are tender, flavorful, and versatile. A delicious way to prepare scallops is by making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops. This dish is simple to make, yet it feels fancy enough for a gourmet dinner.

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops can impress your family, friends, or even yourself! With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly special. In this article, we will go over why you will love this recipe, how to prepare it, and serve it. We will also cover tips for storage and answer some frequently asked questions.

So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops will become a favorite in your cooking routine:

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require hours of preparation. You can have a lovely meal ready in under 30 minutes.
2. Gourmet Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich and indulgent flavor that feels luxurious.
3. Healthy Choice: Scallops are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy option. You can enjoy a guilt-free dish.
4. Versatile: You can serve this dish as a main course or an appetizer. It fits perfectly into any meal or occasion.
5. Impressive Presentation: Baked scallops look elegant on a plate. They will impress anyone who sees and tastes them.

With all these reasons, it’s clear that this recipe is a winner!

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is quite easy. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you will create a dish that tastes amazing.

Ingredients:

To make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh scallops (larger ones, like sea scallops, work best)
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon of dried parsley)
• 1 lemon, juiced (optional for added freshness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Bread crumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Instructions:

Now let’s go through the steps to prepare these delicious scallops!

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow your scallops to cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Take a baking dish (a glass or ceramic dish works well) and lightly grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent the scallops from sticking.
3. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
4. Add Seasoning: Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice (if using) into the butter and garlic mixture. Mix well and set aside.
5. Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. It’s important to remove excess moisture to ensure they bake nicely.
6. Arrange Scallops: Place the scallops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the dish, as this will affect cooking.
7. Add Garlic Butter Mixture: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is well coated.
8. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the scallops to enhance their flavor. If you want a crunchy texture, sprinkle a layer of bread crumbs on top.
9. Bake: Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes. They should be opaque and firm when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
10. Serve: Once they are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. They are now ready to be served!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops make for a stunning presentation on the dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions:

• On a Bed of Greens: Place the baked scallops on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach. The greens add color and freshness to the plate.
• With Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors of the scallops wonderfully.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them in small portions as an elegant appetizer for dinner guests.
• With a Side Dish: Pair with sides like garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.

No matter how you choose to serve them, your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops will be a hit!

How to Store Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

If you have leftovers (which is not likely because they are so delicious), it’s important to store them properly for future enjoyment.

1. Cool Down: Allow the scallops to cool to room temperature before storing.
2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the scallops in an airtight container. You can use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
3. Refrigerate: Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
4. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the cooked scallops tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last for about 2 months. However, keep in mind that the texture may change when thawed.
5. Reheat Carefully: When you are ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 350°F or 175°C). This will help avoid overcooking.

Tips for Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Here are some handy tips to help you make the best Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

1. Quality of Scallops: Always choose fresh, high-quality scallops. If possible, buy them from a trusted seafood market to ensure freshness.
2. Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. When they are done, they should be firm yet tender.
3. Customization: Feel free to customize the garlic butter by adding flavors you love. For example, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
4. Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also be added for extra flavor.
5. Serve Promptly: It’s best to serve scallops right after baking when they are most tender and flavorful.

Variation

While Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are delicious as is, you can try some variations to keep things interesting:

1. Cheesy Scallops: Add some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
2. Herb Crust: Mix bread crumbs with dried herbs like oregano or basil for added flavor.
3. Spicy Garlic Butter: Add chili oil or diced jalapeños into the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make this dish your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of scallops should I use?
You can use either sea scallops or bay scallops. Sea scallops are larger and meatier, while bay scallops are smaller and more delicate.

2. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Make sure to pat them dry before baking.

3. Can I make the garlic butter in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter and keep it in the fridge for a few days. Just rewarm it before pouring over the scallops.

Making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is an enjoyable experience that results in a delicious dish. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to impress. With minimal effort, you can serve a gourmet meal right from your oven. Enjoy your cooking!