Crispy Parmesan-Broiled Scallops
Indulge in these deliciously crispy Parmesan-Broiled Scallops, a perfect combination of tender scallops and a golden, cheesy topping. This recipe creates a mouthwatering dish that's simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough for entertaining. The scallops are coated with a crunchy mixture of melba toast, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a hint of paprika, which brings out their natural sweetness. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty finish. Ideal for lunch or as an elegant snack, these scallops are sure to impress your family and friends.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion-flavored melba toast
1/3 cup (finely crushed, about 9 pieces)
Grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon (freshly grated)
Minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon (fresh)
Paprika
1/4 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Sea scallops
1 1/2 lbs (fresh or thawed)
Butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Lemon wedge
1 (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your broiler and adjust the rack to the second position to prevent the scallops from burning.
2
In a large plastic bag, combine the crushed onion-flavored melba toast, grated Parmesan cheese, minced parsley, paprika, and black pepper. Shake well to mix thoroughly.
3
Carefully brush the sea scallops with melted butter, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4
Add the butter-brushed scallops to the bag with the breadcrumb mixture. Seal the bag and gently shake until the scallops are fully coated in the mixture.
5
Lightly spray a broiler pan with cooking spray, then arrange the coated scallops on the pan in a single layer.
6
Broil the scallops in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
7
Remove from the broiler and serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for added freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Parmesan-Broiled Scallops?
Crispy Parmesan-Broiled Scallops are a seafood dish featuring tender scallops topped with a golden mixture of melba toast, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
What type of scallops should I use?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of sea scallops, which can be fresh or thawed.
What is the key to the crispy topping?
The topping is made from finely crushed onion-flavored melba toast and grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I prepare the melba toast for the coating?
You should finely crush about 9 pieces of onion-flavored melba toast to yield approximately 1/3 cup.
Where should the oven rack be placed when broiling?
Adjust the oven rack to the second position to prevent the scallops from burning while ensuring they cook through.
How long do the scallops need to broil?
Broil the scallops for about 10 minutes or until they become opaque and the topping is golden brown.
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sea scallops, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before preparation.
What is the best way to coat the scallops?
Brush the scallops with melted butter, then place them in a plastic bag with the crumb mixture and shake gently until evenly coated.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of minced fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
What spices are included in the breading?
The breading mixture includes paprika and black pepper for seasoning.
What should I serve with these scallops?
They are best served immediately with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, this dish is categorized under Lunch/Snacks and makes for an elegant midday meal.
How much butter is required?
You will need 1 tablespoon of melted butter to brush over the scallops.
Do I need to grease the pan?
Yes, lightly spray your broiler pan with cooking spray before arranging the scallops to prevent sticking.
Can I substitute the onion-flavored melba toast?
While onion-flavored provides specific depth, you can substitute it with plain melba toast or seasoned breadcrumbs.
What type of cheese is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Should I arrange the scallops in a specific way on the pan?
Yes, arrange the coated scallops in a single layer to ensure even cooking and browning.
What indicates that the scallops are finished cooking?
The scallops are done when they lose their translucency and become opaque throughout.
Can I make this for a dinner party?
Absolutely, the description highlights that these scallops are sophisticated enough for entertaining and dinner parties.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and is simple to prepare with only 7 ingredients.
Why use a plastic bag to coat the scallops?
Using a plastic bag helps to thoroughly and evenly coat the scallops with the crumb mixture without making a mess.
Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
You can, but bay scallops are much smaller and will require a significantly shorter broiling time to avoid overcooking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 primary ingredients used in this recipe.
What is the purpose of the paprika?
Paprika adds color and helps bring out the natural sweetness of the sea scallops.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh parsley is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley if fresh is unavailable.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, the melba toast contains wheat, but you could use gluten-free crackers to adapt the recipe.
Can I use a different cheese than Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or another hard, salty cheese would be a suitable alternative to Parmesan.
How do I avoid burning the topping?
Adjusting the rack to the second position and monitoring the scallops closely during the 10-minute broil time will prevent burning.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Scallops are best served immediately, as reheating can make them rubbery; however, a quick toss in a hot pan can work.