Indulge in the luxurious delight of Seasoned Scallops Broiled in Bacon Fat, an elegant dish that embodies oceanic sweetness and savory richness. Perfectly quick and easy for special occasions, this flavor-packed recipe ensures your scallops are tender and bursting with flavor—all ready in just 20 minutes!
Budget Information
This delightful recipe for Seasoned Scallops Broiled in Bacon Fat costs approximately $18.49 to prepare, which breaks down to about $4.62 per serving for four generous servings. The key ingredients are affordable and can easily be found fresh at your local grocery store!
Why This Recipe Works
Scallops can be intimidating, can’t they? But fear not! This recipe simplifies the cooking process and uses bacon fat to enhance right-to-the-point flavor without overpowering the delicate, sweet nature of the scallops. They’re quick to cook, taking only a few minutes, and broiling captures an irresistible caramelization that elevates them to fancy restaurant status! Plus, with minimal ingredients, you’ll have more time to enjoy your delectable meal rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Gather up the following ingredients:
- 10 whole scallops ($10.00) – Fresh is best, but frozen works too; just ensure they’re thawed before cooking.
- 2 tablespoons bacon fat ($0.30) – Or substitute with melted butter for a different flavor profile.
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder ($0.05) – Skip this for a low-FODMAP option.
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder ($0.05) – Omit if you prefer your scallops to shine solo.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley ($0.50) – Fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to broil. This is your secret weapon for achieving that crispy, golden top! It’s like setting the stage for a fantastic flavor show.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the scallops with the melted bacon fat, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of paprika if you’re feeling fancy. Toss them gently to coat every single scallop. This step is crucial—think of it as giving your scallops a flavorful spa treatment.
Step 3: Now, arrange the scallops in a single layer in a large baking dish. Make sure they have their personal space! Broil them for about 10 minutes, watching them closely. You want to achieve that gorgeous golden-brown color on top; it’s the sign of a well-cooked scallop!
Step 4: After 10 minutes, flip each scallop over, allowing them to sear up beautifully on both sides. Broil for an additional 4 minutes until they’ve reached a mouthwatering gold and are cooked through. To finish, garnish your scallops with freshly chopped parsley—this adds a touch of color and freshness that even the finest chef would admire!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 379 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Total Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 694 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Store any remaining scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them rubbery—no one wants that for their gourmet meal!
Serving Suggestions
These seasoned scallops shine on their own but pair beautifully with a simple side salad and a glass of white wine to enhance the meal’s sophistication. For an upscale touch, serve them over creamy risotto or alongside roasted asparagus, elevating your dinner experience to a whole new level!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t have bacon fat? Don’t fret! Try using ghee or extra virgin olive oil, as they both impart wonderful flavors. Also, when buying scallops, opt for ‘dry’ scallops if possible—they’re flash-frozen without preservatives and are far superior in texture and taste. Lastly, take your time when broiling; everything can go from perfectly browned to burnt in a blink!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops? Yes! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water before cooking.
How do I know when scallops are done cooking? They should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a lovely golden-brown exterior. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough.
Can I make these scallops ahead of time? While they’re best served fresh, you can prepare them up to step 3 in advance and broil just before serving.
What’s the best way to season scallops? Given their delicate flavor, simple seasoning is often best. Salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic are all you really need; let the seafood shine!
Can I cook these on the grill? Absolutely! Just follow the same instructions, using a grill-safe pan or skewers to avoid losing any delicious scallops to the flames!
