Discover the Elegance of Parmesan Baked Scallops: A Culinary Delight

In the world of fine dining and gourmet cooking, there are certain dishes that stand out for their simplicity, elegance, and sheer deliciousness. Parmesan Baked Scallops is one such recipe that combines the delicate sweetness of sea scallops with a crispy, savory topping, making it a must-try for any seafood lover. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a luxurious meal, this recipe is sure to delight your palate and elevate your culinary skills.

Who This Recipe is For and Why It’s Great

This Parmesan Baked Scallops recipe is perfect for both seasoned chefs and culinary novices alike. Its simplicity and quick preparation time make it an excellent choice for a sophisticated weeknight dinner, yet its elegant presentation and complex flavor profile are sure to impress at any formal gathering. Additionally, this dish is a fantastic way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, offering a healthy dose of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons and cups
Paper towels
Spoon or spatula for mixing

Ingredients and Directions: A Symphony of Flavors

The key to this recipe lies in its high-quality ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s a brief overview:

Sea Scallops: The stars of the show, jumbo scallops are sweet, tender, and rich in flavor.
Seasonings: A simple yet effective blend of salt, pepper, and paprika adds depth.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory element that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
Fresh Parsley: For a touch of freshness.
Butter and Olive Oil: Enriches the dish, ensuring it’s moist and flavorful.
Optional Enhancements: Chipotle chili powder for a smoky kick, and lemon zest for brightness.

The cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. The scallops are coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, then baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s golden brown on the outside and succulently tender on the inside.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

Quality Matters: Opt for fresh, high-quality scallops for the best results.
Make It Your Own: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add herbs like dill or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Shortcut: If you’re short on time, pre-grate your Parmesan and purchase pre-washed parsley.
Variation: For a gluten-free version, substitute Panko with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storing Leftovers

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the texture of the scallops.

Food and Drink Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the richness of the scallops and Parmesan. For sides, consider light, fresh options like a green salad or steamed asparagus to balance the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before use.
How do I know when the scallops are done? The scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Can I prepare this in advance? It’s best prepared fresh, but you can mix the breadcrumb topping ahead of time.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Creating a dish as delightful as Parmesan Baked Scallops is a journey worth taking for any food enthusiast. Its combination of simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and gourmet appeal make it a standout recipe that’s bound to become a favorite.

Call to Action

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Parmesan Baked Scallops

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

Dive into the elegance of the sea with these Parmesan Baked Scallops – a perfect blend of crispy and tender!

Ingredients

16-20 sea scallops (jumbo scallops)
¼ teaspoon each of salt & pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
½ cup plain Panko breadcrumbs
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus some reserved for topping
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter for the baking dish, ⅛ teaspoon chipotle chili powder, fresh lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Optionally, coat the bottom of your baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and remove any tough side muscle.
In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, chipotle chili powder (if using), Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, olive oil, and lemon zest (if using). Stir until well mixed.
Place the scallops in a single layer in the baking dish and evenly top with the breadcrumb mixture. Sprinkle with the reserved Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the scallops are cooked through

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: 267 Kcal