The Classic Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe is an easy and delightful fusion of flavors inspired by Japanese cuisine, elevated with the rich essence of Benihana Garlic Butter sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a show-stopping seafood dish, this recipe is a baking technique that is quick to prepare, making it ideal for special occasions or indulgent dining at home.
Table of Contents
key information
- Culinary Art: American, Seafood
- Dish Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Published by: Recipes FAQ
It’s advised, that users use a calorie-tracking app if they need precise counts.
All About Classic Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
The Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe is a culinary masterpiece highlighting fresh scallops’ delicate flavors, enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, showcasing the beauty of seafood served directly in its shell. With its presentfulness and mouthwatering taste, this recipe will impress your guests.
Cultural Significance
Scallops have long been a cherished ingredient in coastal cuisines around the world. In American culinary traditions, garlic butter scallops in shells are often featured in upscale dining settings, symbolizing luxury and sophistication. The practice of serving scallops in their shells not only preserves their natural moisture but also adds an aesthetic appeal that elevates any dining experience.
Why You Should Make It
Making the Classical garlic scallops is an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress at their next gathering. The preparation is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor. Additionally, the dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Unique Selling Points
- Elegant Presentation: Serving baked scallops in their shells creates a stunning visual impact.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic and butter enhances the scallop’s natural sweetness.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared quickly without sacrificing quality.
- Versatile Pairing: These baked garlic scallops in shells can be served as an appetizer or paired with sides for a complete meal.
Taste and Flavor Profile
The Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe offers a delightful taste experience characterized by:
- Sweetness: The scallops themselves have a naturally sweet flavor that shines through when cooked properly.
- Umami: The garlic butter adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall taste.
- Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs like parsley brighten the dish and provide additional flavor complexity.
Garlic Butter Scallops for seafood lovers
Garlic Butter Scallops are dishes that adapt beautifully to various cooking techniques. Each style enhances the scallop’s flavor and texture differently, offering unique experiences for seafood lovers. Below, we explore some of the popular methods how they differ from the classic Garlic Butter Scallops recipe, and what can make them special.
Cooking Styles for Garlic Butter Scallops
These styles focus on different techniques that enhance texture and flavor, offering variety while staying true to the essence of Garlic Butter Scallops.
Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Scallops
- Description: A high-heat technique that creates a golden crust while keeping the scallops tender and juicy.
- Pro Tip: Pat scallops dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and avoid steaming.
Garlic Butter Scallops in a Cast Iron Skillet
- Description: The even heat distribution of a cast-iron skillet enhances caramelization, making this method ideal for bold flavors.
- Pro Tip: Preheat the skillet for a few minutes to achieve an even sear.
Pan-fried scallops with Garlic Butter
- Description: Focuses on shallow frying scallops in a garlic butter mix for a quick and flavorful preparation.
- Pro Tip: Use a mix of butter and oil to prevent burning while maintaining a rich taste.
Sauteed Garlic Butter Scallops
- Description: A gentle method that involves tossing scallops in garlic butter over medium heat, resulting in a delicate and tender finish.
- Pro Tip: Add fresh parsley and lemon at the end to elevate the flavors.
Variations of Garlic Butter Scallops
These variations explore flavor profiles and additional ingredients to create unique twists on the classic recipe.
Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops
- Description: Adds heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce, creating a velvety texture perfect for pairing with pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Pro Tip: Simmer the cream with garlic butter sauce to blend flavors fully without curdling.
Try our recipe for Tuscany Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops for a creamy Tuscan-inspired twist with a Pan-Seared Perfection.
Lemon Garlic Scallops
- Description: Incorporates lemon zest and juice for a tangy, bright flavor that complements the richness of butter.
- Pro Tip: Garnish with lemon zest for added aroma and visual appeal.
For a lighter alternative, try our Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Scallops Without Butter, a healthy yet flavorful option!
Now that we’ve explored the different cooking styles and variants, it’s time to dive into the classic recipe for Garlic Butter Scallops that is somewhat related to baked scallops. This will be the footing for the majority of the variations, offering a simple yet luxurious dish that anyone can make at home.
What is Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe Made Of?
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh scallops in their shells | 12 scallops | Provides a sweet and tender seafood base. |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds richness and creaminess to the dish; helps to create the garlic butter sauce. |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Provides an aromatic flavor; and enhances the overall taste of the garlic scallops in the shell. |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | It adds richness and creaminess to the dish and helps create the garlic butter sauce. |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances the natural flavors of the scallops and other ingredients. |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the dish. |
| Lemon wedges | For serving | Brightens the dish with acidity;i.e. complements the flavors of the half shell scallop with vermicelli. |
Ingredient Substitutes for Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
| Ingredient | Possible Substitutes | Purpose of Substitute |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | Olive oil, coconut oil, or vegan butter | These options can maintain richness while accommodating dairy-free diets. |
| Garlic (minced) | Garlic powder or shallots | Garlic powder provides a milder flavor, while shallots add a sweet onion taste. |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | Chives, cilantro, or basil | These herbs can provide freshness and flavor variations. |
| Salt | Sea salt or low-sodium alternatives | Adjusting salt types can help manage sodium intake. |
| Black pepper | White pepper or paprika | These spices can add flavor without altering the dish’s essence. |
| Lemon wedges | Lime wedges or vinegar | Lime provides a similar acidity, while vinegar can add brightness. |
Special Notes on Substitutions
- Low-Carb Option: For those following a low-carb diet, consider using cauliflower rice as a side dish instead of traditional sides like pasta.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute scallops with marinated king oyster mushrooms for a vegan version.
- Gluten-Free Version: The original recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if serving alongside other dishes.
Cooking Instructions for Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
This dish uses a baking method, gently baking the scallops in their shells while they soak up a rich garlic butter sauce. Unlike other styles, such as pan-seared or sautéed variations, this recipe keeps things traditional and pure, focusing on the timeless flavors of garlic and butter. Perfect for an appetizer or a sophisticated dinner.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
This step is crucial for achieving the perfect baking temperature for your Butter garlic scallops in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Melt the Butter:
In a medium skillet, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt gently without browning. - Add the Garlic:
Once melted, stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. - Season the Mixture:
Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors of your garlic butter sauce. - Incorporate Fresh Herbs:
Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley into the garlic butter mixture, adding freshness and vibrant color.
For an alternative flavor profile, consider using Homemade benihana garlic butter sauce Recipe
Step 3: Prepare the Scallops
Arrange the Scallops:
Place 12 fresh scallops in their shells on a baking sheet or in a baking dish if you’re using shelled scallops.
Step 4: Apply the Garlic Butter
Generously Spoon Over Scallops:
Using a spoon, drizzle the garlic butter mixture generously over each scallop, ensuring they are well-coated to absorb all that rich flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a Preheated Oven:
Transfer to your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until opaque and baked through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Final Touches:
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness. - Serve with Lemon Wedges:
Place lemon wedges alongside your scallops for squeezing over just before eating, enhancing the flavors of baked sea scallops with butter and garlic.
Serving Suggestions
Best Dishes to Serve with Shelly Garlic Butter Scallops
- Lemon Herb Risotto
- Why It’s a Perfect Pairing: The creamy, tangy flavor of risotto balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce. The zesty hint of lemon mirrors the brightness in the scallops, while the creamy texture complements their tender, buttery quality.
- Garlic Butter Linguine
- Why It’s a Perfect Pairing: Linguine, tossed in garlic butter sauce, creates a cohesive meal by extending the flavors of the scallops. The simplicity of the pasta lets the scallops remain the star while adding a satisfying base to soak up the sauce.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Why It’s a Perfect Pairing: These creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes echo the rich, buttery flavors of the scallops. Their velvety texture adds a comforting, hearty element to the dish, making it perfect for a cold-weather meal.
Serving Tips
- Arrange the scallop shells on a platter filled with coarse sea salt or crushed ice to stabilize them and create a visually stunning presentation.
- For added flavor, garnish each scallop with fresh parsley, a touch of lemon zest, and a drizzle of warm garlic butter sauce.
Practical Recommendations and Tips:
Cooking Techniques for Best Results
- Even Heat Distribution: Use a preheated oven for consistent baking of sea scallops in their shells. This helps retain juices and prevents overcooking.
- Garlic Butter Sauce Mastery: Sauté garlic in butter over low heat to avoid bitterness, and add fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Enhance your culinary skills with these 5 Cooking Techniques for Garlic Butter Scallops and discover creative ways to perfect this dish!
Presentation Ideas for a Restaurant-Style Look
- Serve the garlic butter scallops in shell recipe on a platter surrounded by lemon wedges and sprigs of parsley for a professional touch.
- Elevate the experience by pairing each half-shell scallop with vermicelli, plated elegantly with edible flowers or microgreens for a splash of color.
Storage Suggestions to Keep It Fresh
- Freezing: Avoid freezing cooked scallops, as they may lose texture. If necessary, freeze uncooked scallops in their shells for up to 3 months.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the shells separate to avoid sogginess.
- Reheating: Warm the scallops gently in a low oven or microwave with a small amount of garlic butter sauce to prevent them from drying out.
