Fresh scallops are a crowd-pleasing favorite any time of the year, not just on National Fried Scallop Day. As one of the most versatile seafood options available, you can completely customize the flavor and method of cooking to your taste. If you are new to cooking Scallops, here are three easy (and delicious) recipes to try.
Buttery pan-seared Scallops
A quick, easy, and delicious way to prepare scallops, this method takes only about 10 minutes and requires minimal preparation. Pat down fresh scallops and season them with salt, pepper, or any specific seasoning you prefer.
Prep the pan or skillet by increasing the heat to medium/high. Once heated, add a conservative amount of a high smoke point oil, such as olive oil, to the pan.
Place the scallops in the pan, with room left between them so they do not touch one another. Sear the scallops for approximately two minutes on one side, adding butter once flipped. Continue to cook the other side for one minute. Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they will become tough to chew.
Once ready, serve them alongside a grain or add them to a salad for a light and fresh summer meal.
Air-fried Scallops
The air fryer has taken the world by storm and, in recent years, has become a staple in many kitchens. Scallops are fair game in the realm of what you can air fry. On hot summer days, skip heating a big oven and opt for this quick method.
Begin by preheating the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Once heated, spray the fryer with a non-stick cooking spray. Prep the scallops by patting them down and seasoning them to taste. Once preheated, place the scallops in the fryer and heat for three minutes. Flip the scallops to the other side, then cook for another three minutes.
Soften a couple of tablespoons of butter (relative to the number of scallops you cook) in a separate dish. Once the scallops are finished cooking, toss them with the softened butter and serve.
Crispy Baked Scallops
If you want to add some crunch to the buttery smooth flavor of fresh scallops, preheat your oven to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a bowl, mix melted butter, salt, and garlic. In a separate bowl, toss together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Set these bowls aside.
Remove the fresh scallops from their packaging, drying them off with a paper towel. Take each scallop (similar to the process of making fried chicken) and dip each in the butter mixture, and once coated, coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumb mixture.
Once coated, place the scallops on a baking tray and leave space between them. If desired, add the butter mixture and sprinkles of parmesan cheese to the tray.
Bake anywhere from 10 to 14 minutes, depending on the size and amount of scallops. Serve and enjoy!
