Introduction
Garlic butter baked scallops are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of tender scallops, flavorful garlic, and rich butter creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply craving a special meal, this recipe is a fantastic choice to elevate your dining experience.
Scallops are a versatile seafood ingredient that cooks quickly and pairs well with a variety of flavors. By baking them with garlic butter, you enhance their natural sweetness and create a delicious sauce that complements the delicate texture of the scallops. This recipe is perfect for both experienced cooks looking for a simple yet elegant dish and beginners wanting to try their hand at cooking seafood.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making garlic butter baked scallops step by step. From selecting the freshest ingredients to serving the finished dish, we will cover everything you need to know to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure with our garlic butter baked scallops recipe!
Ingredients
Before you begin making garlic butter baked scallops, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
1. Fresh scallops (about 1 pound)
2. Unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
3. Garlic cloves, minced (4 cloves)
4. Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons)
5. Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
6. Salt and pepper to taste
These simple yet flavorful ingredients are all you need to create a delicious dish that will impress your friends and family. Make sure to choose high-quality scallops for the best results, as fresh ingredients are key to a successful seafood dish.
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the steps for making garlic butter baked scallops.
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any small side muscles attached to the scallops and discard them.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Remove the butter and garlic mixture from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the scallops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, making sure to coat them evenly.
6. Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.
7. Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Variations
There are many ways to customize the garlic butter baked scallops recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops before baking for a cheesy twist.
2. Substitute the parsley with fresh dill or chives for a different herb flavor.
3. Mix in some breadcrumbs or crushed nuts with the garlic butter mixture for added texture.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your unique version of this delicious dish. The possibilities are endless!
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your garlic butter baked scallops turn out perfectly every time:
1. Use fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture. Frozen scallops can work in a pinch but may not yield the same results.
2. Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them while they are baking to prevent this from happening.
3. Serve the scallops hot out of the oven for the best taste and texture. They can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer or paired with pasta or rice for a complete meal.
4. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and butter to suit your taste preferences. You can also add other seasonings like paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Garlic butter baked scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for delicious seafood.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a great way to elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a gourmet dining experience at home. The combination of tender scallops, savory garlic, and rich butter is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
So, next time you are looking for a special dish to serve your family and friends, consider making garlic butter baked scallops. With its irresistible flavor and simple preparation, this recipe is a winner every time!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
A: While fresh scallops are recommended for the best results, you can use frozen scallops if that’s what you have available. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Q: How do I know when the scallops are done?
A: The scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when they are cooked through. Avoid overcooking them to prevent them from becoming tough.
Q: Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake the scallops. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using it.
Q: What can I serve with garlic butter baked scallops?
A: Garlic butter baked scallops pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or crusty bread. Choose your favorite accompaniments to create a complete and satisfying meal.
A easy Garlic butter baked scallops
Delight your taste buds with this delightful and easy-to-make dish of garlic butter baked scallops. Tender scallops baked with flavorful garlic and rich butter create a mouthwatering sauce that complements the delicate texture of the scallops. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a simple yet elegant seafood dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh scallops
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
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Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat them dry, and remove any small side muscles.
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Melt butter in a saucepan, add minced garlic, cook until fragrant.
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Remove from heat, stir in parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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Place scallops in the baking dish, pour garlic butter mixture over them.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
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Let the scallops rest before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon juice.
