Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
500 | 33g | 20g | 20g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
2g | 1g | 45g | 0.4g |
Why I Love Canadian Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping
I still remember the first time I sampled a dish of Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping. That particular occasion was an exploration of Canadian cuisine at a quaint roadside eatery during a camping trip. From the first scrumptious bite, I knew that this recipe was bound to become a personal favorite. It was something about the perfect balance of the golden, butter-soaked breadcrumbs contrasting with the tender, succulent scallops that just clicked. It was reminiscent of my Montana roots; though ocean fare like scallops was a rarity in our landlocked state, these familiar hearty flavors bridged that gulf with ease. In a way, the introduction to this dish was like discovering a new world and remembering home at the same time.
Finding Inspiration in the Familiar
Creating the perfect Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping wasn’t an easy journey. It took time and imagination, a carefully orchestrated whirlwind of carefully tested flavor combinations and cooking methods. My love for fresh, homely flavors guided me, and I was committed to recreating that memorable first taste. A great source of inspiration was Jamie Oliver, a chef known for his approachable renditions of complex dishes. His emphasis on using fresh, simple ingredients to achieve stunning results resonated with my culinary vision. Although this particular recipe doesn’t trace back to him directly, his philosophy of cooking is certainly an inspiration.
Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping — Beauty in Simplicity
Though scallops are the star of the show, the true magic of the recipe lies in the rich, butter-infused crumb topping. It’s an ingenious and simple combination of breadcrumbs, parsley, and garlic — a fusion that creates a delightful aromatic crunch. That joy of crisp textures and savory flavors is not unlike biting into a beloved Bison burger, its rugged, meaty goodness encased in a gently toasted bun. It’s something that, despite its elegant facade, possesses a comforting familiarity, a hint of home.
The versatility of Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping is one of the many reasons I adore this recipe. It serves as a remarkable standalone meal, while also complementing a more comprehensive feast. Imagine it as a luxurious starter before a main course of Grilled Top Round Steak or a refreshing, tangy Broccoli Salad. And if you’re in the mood for an entirely seafood-themed spread, it pairs exceptionally well with a Potato Crusted Halibut.
Despite the distance from my Montana beginnings, this Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping recipe carries my love and enthusiasm for innovative, comforting food. It may not be a Bison burger or a huckleberry pie but is every bit as dear to me. It’s proof that our palates can evolve while still cherishing the familiar.
What You’ll Need
<ul> <li>2 pounds of large sea scallops</li> <li>1 cup of unsalted butter, melted</li> <li>1 cup of breadcrumbs</li> <li>1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped</li> <li>2 cloves of garlic, minced</li> <li>1 tablespoon of lemon zest</li> <li>2 tablespoons of lemon juice</li> <li>1 teaspoon of salt</li> <li>1/2 teaspoon of black pepper</li> </ul>
Method
<h3>Step One</h3>
<p>Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry. Arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish.</p>
<h3>Step Two</h3>
<p>In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.</p>
<h3>Step Three</h3>
<p>Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the scallops, making sure to cover each one completely.</p>
<h3>Step Four</h3>
<p>Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy and the scallops are cooked through. Be sure to not overcook the scallops as they can become tough and chewy.</p>
<h3>Step Five</h3>
<p>Remove the scallops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Butter-Baked Scallops with Herb Crumb Topping while hot!</p>