| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 15g | 9g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 20g | 0.60g |
Why I Love American Lemon Butter Baked Scallops
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If there’s one dish that combines simplicity, elegance, and a burst of freshness, it’s this Lemon Butter Baked Scallops recipe. From the first time I tried it, I was hooked by the nuanced flavors – from the citrusy tang of the lemon to the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth scallops. This recipe brings a unique twist to traditional seafood dishes that I’ve always loved.
A Fusion of Flavors
What really stands out in this recipe is its perfect balance of flavors. The zingy lemon juice melds beautifully with the richness of the melted butter, creating a luscious base for the tender sea scallops. Garlic and fresh parsley add layers of aromatic complexity, while the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese bring a delightful crunch. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish, reminiscent of coastal Mediterranean cuisine and a hint of Caribbean flair, thanks to the fresh, bright notes of lemon and herbs.
A Nod to Culinary Inspiration
Creating this Lemon Butter Baked Scallops dish took inspiration from renowned chef Jacques Pépin, whose emphasis on using fresh, high-quality ingredients aligns perfectly with my cooking philosophy. While Chef Pépin has a penchant for French techniques, his recipes often highlight the importance of accessible, everyday elegance – a concept I wanted to capture in this dish.
This recipe is similar to classic dishes like garlic-butter shrimp scampi or even baked cod with a lemon herb crust. However, the unique incorporation of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese gives it a delightful twist, making it an excellent main course for any dinner party or a cozy night in.
Perfect Pairings
These Lemon Butter Baked Scallops are incredibly versatile and pair well with numerous side dishes. Consider serving them alongside a crisp salad or garlic parmesan roasted asparagus to keep the meal light and fresh. For those looking to indulge a bit more, a rich, creamy risotto or a simple yet delightful garlic bread would complement the scallops marvelously.
With their vibrant flavors and impressive presentation, this Lemon Butter Baked Scallops recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and let the delicate balance of lemon, butter, and fresh herbs transport you to a seaside paradise.
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What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds fresh sea scallops
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon zest from 1 lemon
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
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Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If the scallops have a tough side muscle, remove it by gently peeling it away.
Step Two
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Pour the mixture over the scallops, ensuring they are well coated. Season the scallops with salt and black pepper.
Step Three
In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Four
Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops, covering them completely.
Step Five
Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step Six
Remove the scallops from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve the lemon butter baked scallops with optional lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy!
