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Home » Fish

What are Scallops - Recipes and Info

Published: May 3, 2023 by Kate

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Collage of scallops recipes.

Wondering what are scallops? Scallops are delicious and versatile seafood that you can cook in various ways. They are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and they are low in calories and fat. In this 'Scallops 101', you'll find information, recipes, how to prep, and more.

Wooden table with plate of scallops.
Scallops
Jump to:
  • What are Scallops?
  • Types
  • How to Prep Scallops
  • How to cook scallops
  • Choosing and Storing
  • Nutritional Benefits
  • Recipes
  • 💬 Comments

What are Scallops?

Scallops are a type of shellfish that belong to the family of bivalves, which also includes clams, oysters, and mussels.

They have two symmetrical, fan-shaped shells that are connected by a hinge.

The edible part is the adductor muscle, which is the muscle that opens and closes the shell.

They can range in size from small bay scallops to large sea versions and are found in oceans all around the world.

Table with a plate of pan seared scallops.
Pan fried.

Types

There are three main types of scallops: bay scallops, sea scallops, and calico scallops.

Bay scallops are the smallest type of scallop and are typically found in shallow, warm waters along the Atlantic coast. They are usually harvested in the summer months and have a sweet, delicate flavor.

Sea scallops are the largest type of scallop and are typically found in deeper, cooler waters. They are harvested year-round and have a meatier texture and a slightly sweet, briny flavor.

Calico scallops, also known as Argopecten gibbus, are a smaller type of scallop that are found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They have a unique, shell-like appearance and a mild, sweet flavor.

King scallops are a type of scallop that is found in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are the largest type of scallop, with a shell that can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. King scallops are prized for their sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture.

When choosing scallops, consider the recipe you plan to use them in, as the different types can have a significant impact on the final dish.

Plate of king scallops.
King Scallops

How to Prep Scallops

Before cooking scallops, it's important to prepare them properly.

Most come with a small side muscle attached that you'll need to remove before cooking. To do this, gently pull the muscle off the side of the scallop and discard it.

If the scallops have any roe (the orange part), you can remove it if desired.

If your scallops are not already cleaned, you'll need to rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Scallops cooking in a pan of butter.
Pan seared

How to cook scallops

Scallops are a highly versatile ingredient and you can cook them in a variety of ways, including seared, grilled, sautéed, poached, and baked.

TIP: When cooking scallops, it is essential to avoid overcooking them, as this can cause them to become tough and chewy. Scallops cook very quickly, so it is crucial to keep a close eye on them while cooking.

You can try pan-frying, grilling, baking, and poaching your scallops.

  • Pan-frying: This is the most common way to cook them. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Season them with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Try these Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter.
  • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Try these grilled scallops.
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake them for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Boiling/Poaching: Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Add a tablespoon of butter, a lemon slice, and a sprig of thyme to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and poach for 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through. Try these Garlic Butter Boiled Scallops.

Choosing and Storing

Choosing: When selecting scallops, look for those that are firm and shiny with no discoloration or unpleasant odor.

Fresh ones should have a slightly sweet aroma, and the meat should be slightly translucent with no visible browning.

Storing: You can store scallops in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You'll need to place them into an airtight container lined with paper towels.

Nutritional Benefits

Scallops are not only delicious but are also a healthy food choice. They are an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium.

They are also low in calories and fat and contain a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.

Bowl of garlic butter boiled scallops on a table.
Boiled scallops

Recipes

Scallops are a delicious and versatile seafood delicacy, and you can cook them in various ways. They come in different varieties and offer several nutritional benefits, making them an excellent addition to any diet. Whether you're a seafood lover or new to the world of scallops, there's no denying the unique flavor and texture that this shellfish brings to the table. Try them in these tasty recipes!

Scallop Recipes

Scallops are delicious and versatile seafood that can be cooked in various ways. Try these tasty recipes!

Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter

You only need 10 minutes and 5 ingredients for these tasty pan-seared scallops with lemon butter.

Garlic Butter Boiled Scallops

Boiled scallops are so easy and tasty! They're boiled until beautifully tender and seasoned with lemon, herbs and garlic butter. Ready in 15 minutes.

Photo Credit: thishealthytable.com

Pan-Seared Scallops with Edamame & Peas

Ready in just 25 minutes, these pan seared scallops are served with a tangy buttermilk, edamame, and pea base.

Photo Credit: sabrinacurrie.com

Scallops Vongole Style

Scallops vongole are seasoned with garlic, wine, and herbs. This Italian-style steamed scallops dish is ready in just 30 minutes.

Photo Credit: sabrinacurrie.com

Scallop Curry

This Thai-style scallop curry has a rich base of coconut milk and spicy Thai red curry paste. 30 mins.

Photo Credit: inmamamaggieskitchen.com

Scallop Ceviche

In Scallop Ceviche (Ceviche de Callo de Hacha), a Mexican appetizer, the raw seafood is 'cooked' via denaturation, a process that chemically “cooks” raw seafood in an acidic citrus marinade (typically lime) and without heat.

Photo Credit: beyondmeresustenance.com

Irish Scallop Bisque

This Irish scallop bisque is creamy smooth and made with seared scallops.

Photo Credit: beyondmeresustenance.com

Seared Scallop With Mushroom Risotto

Seared scallops make this creamy mushroom risotto extra special!

Photo Credit: kalynskitchen.com

Warm Scallop Caesar Salad

Try adding pan fried scallops instead of chicken in your caesar salad for a great flavor.

Photo Credit: www.thefoodhussy.com

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

This appetizer is so easy and tasty! Wrap scallops in bacon and get them crispy in the air fryer. Ready in just a few minutes.

Photo Credit: temeculablogs.com

How to Cook Frozen Scallops

Learn how to cook frozen scallops in a pan, air fryer, Instant Pot or microwave.

Photo Credit: gypsyplate.com

Scallop Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Make this bright and summery scallop pasta in just 20 minutes.

Photo Credit: thehealthyepicurean.com

Pistachio-Crusted Scallops

 Sear seasoned scallops until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, then roll them in a mix of crushed pistachios and lemon zest. Ready in just 15 minutes.

Photo Credit: thefoodolic.com

Zamburiñas

Galician Scallops, also known as Zamburiñas, are served with a smooth white wine béchamel and Iberic ham.

Photo Credit: www.runningtothekitchen.com

Grilled Scallops with Tomatillo Plum Salsa

Try grilling your scallops on skewers and serve them with a tomatillo plum salsa.

Photo Credit: www.thefoodblog.net

Seafood Enchiladas

Seafood Enchiladas with shrimp and scallops are a tasty seafood twist on Mexican enchiladas.

Photo Credit: calmeats.com

Scallops with Butternut Squash and Snow Peas

In this elegant dish, pan seared scallops are served on a bed of butternut squash puree, with vibrant snow peas.

Photo Credit: theforkedspoon.com

Spanish Paella

Scallops are a great addition, along with other seafood, to Spanish paella.

Photo Credit: cookingwithmammac.com

Broiled Scallops with Parmesan Bread Crumbs

Coat your scallops in parmesan-seasoned breadcrumbs, and cook them under the broiler!

Photo Credit: agrillforallseasons.com

Smoked Scallops

These smoked scallops bring together the flavors of smoke, citrus and sweet seafood.

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    Recipe Rating




  1. dina and bruce miller

    May 03, 2023 at 2:02 pm

    WOW! I learned so much! We love scallops and now we have so many new recipes to try! Yum!

    Reply
  2. Dannii

    May 03, 2023 at 2:26 pm

    So much great information here and really good advice on how to prepare scallops.

    Reply
  3. Kathleen

    May 03, 2023 at 2:30 pm

    What an incredible list of scallop recipes and so informative. I can't wait to get to cooking.

    Reply
  4. Dana

    May 03, 2023 at 2:34 pm

    Scallops are SO delicious. Great article and great info!

    Reply

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