Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Introduction
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a classic seafood dish celebrated for their elegance, simplicity, and irresistibly rich flavor. Tender sea scallops are bathed in melted butter, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and perfectly succulent. This dish strikes a beautiful balance between indulgence and freshness, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or festive gatherings. It expresses warmth, comfort, and a touch of coastal luxury with every bite.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but delicious)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the scallops: Pat dry thoroughly to ensure proper browning and tenderness. Place them in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
3. Make the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour over scallops: Spoon the mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for a lightly crisped, savory finish.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and tender. Avoid overcooking.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Origin
Baked scallops with butter and garlic trace their roots to coastal European cuisine—especially regions of France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal—where seafood is abundant and cooking methods emphasize simplicity and natural flavor. The modern version owes much to French culinary tradition, particularly beurre-based techniques that highlight delicacy rather than overpowering the ingredient.
Cultural Significance
In many maritime cultures, scallops symbolize prosperity, celebration, and the connection between land and sea. They are often featured in holiday feasts, seaside gatherings, and special-occasion dinners. Because scallops cook quickly and have a refined texture, they are considered both luxurious and approachable—a blend of everyday coastal life and festive indulgence.
Description of the Dish
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops deliver a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth bite. The butter infuses richness, the garlic brings aromatic depth, and the lemon adds a bright layer of acidity. When baked, scallops absorb the flavorful bath, creating a silky sauce that pools at the bottom of the dish—perfect for dipping bread or drizzling over vegetables or pasta.
Optional Additions
Breadcrumb topping for added crunch
A splash of white wine for complexity
Fresh thyme or rosemary for herbal depth
Chili flakes for a hint of heat
Cream to create a richer, gratin-style sauce
Capers for briny contrast
Tips for Success
Dry the scallops thoroughly to avoid steaming.
Use fresh, high-quality scallops (dry-packed is best).
Do not overcook—scallops turn tough quickly.
Room-temperature ingredients help them cook more evenly.
Add lemon after baking for brighter flavor and freshness.
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~190
Protein: ~18 g
Fat: ~12 g
Carbohydrates: ~2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: <1 g
Sodium: ~220 mg
Values may vary based on butter quantity and optional additions.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops exemplify how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated, deeply satisfying meal. This dish captures the beauty of coastal cooking—bright, buttery, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant.
Recommendation
Serve these scallops with crusty bread, angel-hair pasta, lemon risotto, or steamed asparagus. Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a complete, balanced dining experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe offers an indulgent flavor profile while still being a naturally lean, protein-rich choice. Scallops provide essential minerals, omega-3s, and low-fat nourishment. By balancing butter with fresh herbs and citrus, this dish becomes a perfect example of enjoying richness mindfully—celebrating food that nurtures both body and spirit.
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