Crispy Butter-Infused Scallops
Indulge in the delicate flavors of bay scallops prepared to perfection in this simple yet elegant dish. Coated in a light flour mixture infused with Old Bay seasoning, these scallops develop a beautifully crispy exterior that complements their sweet, tender meat. The recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or a gourmet weeknight meal. Pair them with a side of fluffy rice pilaf or roasted potatoes and asparagus for a complete culinary experience that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
bay scallops
1 lb (cleaned)
fine flour
2 tablespoons (for coating)
Old Bay Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon (mixed with flour)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
oil
1 tablespoon (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the fine flour and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
2
Gently roll the cleaned bay scallops in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
3
In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and begins to bubble.
4
Carefully add the coated scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Sauté for 2 1/2 minutes on one side without disturbing them, allowing a golden crust to form.
5
Flip the scallops and cook for an additional 2 1/2 minutes on the other side until browned and just cooked through.
6
Remove scallops from the skillet and serve immediately with your choice of rice pilaf or roasted potatoes and asparagus for a delightful meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Butter-Infused Scallops?
This dish features bay scallops coated in a seasoned flour mixture and pan-seared in butter and oil for a delicate, crispy finish.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What type of scallops should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of bay scallops.
What seasoning is added to the flour coating?
1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning is mixed with the flour.
How much butter is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What kind of oil should be used for frying?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of oil suitable for frying alongside the butter.
How long do the scallops need to cook on each side?
Sauté the scallops for 2 1/2 minutes on the first side and an additional 2 1/2 minutes on the second side.
What temperature should I use to cook the scallops?
The scallops should be cooked over medium-high heat.
What is the recommended pan for this recipe?
A large nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent the scallops from sticking.
How do I prepare the flour coating?
Combine 2 tablespoons of fine flour and the Old Bay seasoning in a small bowl and mix well.
Should I shake off excess flour from the scallops?
Yes, gently roll the scallops in the mixture and shake off any excess flour for a light coating.
Can I use sea scallops instead of bay scallops?
While the recipe specifies bay scallops, you can use sea scallops, though cooking times may need to be slightly increased due to their larger size.
What side dishes go well with these scallops?
Recommended pairings include rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or asparagus.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: bay scallops, fine flour, Old Bay Seasoning, butter, and oil.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and is ideal for a gourmet weeknight dinner.
How do I know when to flip the scallops?
Flip the scallops after 2 1/2 minutes once a golden crust has formed on the bottom.
Do I need to clean the scallops before cooking?
Yes, the recipe suggests using cleaned bay scallops for the best results.
Why is it important to use a single layer in the skillet?
Cooking in a single layer ensures the scallops sear properly rather than steaming, which helps develop the crispy exterior.
Is this recipe suitable for a romantic dinner?
Yes, the description highlights it as an elegant dish perfect for a romantic dinner for two.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The dish offers a sweet and tender meat flavor with a savory, crispy, and lightly spiced exterior.
Can this recipe be considered healthy?
Yes, the recipe is tagged under healthy eating and uses fresh seafood.
What type of cuisine is this recipe associated with?
The tags associate this dish with Canadian cuisine.
When should the scallops be served?
They should be removed from the skillet and served immediately for the best texture.
Can I substitute the fine flour for a gluten-free option?
Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for the coating.
How do I ensure the butter doesn't burn?
Mixing the butter with oil helps raise the smoke point, and adding the scallops once it bubbles helps monitor the heat.
What does Old Bay Seasoning add to the dish?
It provides a classic seafood spice profile that complements the sweetness of the scallops.
How much total time does it take to cook the scallops?
The actual cooking time is approximately 5 minutes.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you may need to cook in batches to maintain the single layer in the pan.
Is salt and pepper needed in addition to Old Bay?
The recipe relies on Old Bay Seasoning for flavor, but you can add salt and pepper to taste if desired.
What texture should the scallops have when finished?
They should be browned and just cooked through, remaining tender on the inside.