Crispy Portuguese Bay Scallops with Lemon and Herbs
Indulge in the delicate flavors of fresh bay scallops with this incredibly simple recipe that honors their natural sweetness. This Portuguese-inspired dish features perfectly pan-fried scallops, lightly coated in flour for a crispy exterior, and enhanced with the aromatic essence of garlic and parsley. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish, making it a delightful appetizer or a light main course that showcases the sea's bounty. It's a perfect meal for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner that will impress family and friends alike.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh bay scallops
1 lb (washed and patted dry)
butter
8 tablespoons (unsalted)
flour
1 cup (for coating)
garlic clove
1 teaspoon (minced)
parsley
3 tablespoons (finely chopped)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
fresh ground black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
fresh lemon
1/2 (juiced)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh bay scallops under cold water and then place them on paper towels to dry completely. This will help achieve a crispier texture while frying.
2
In a shallow bowl, pour in the flour. Carefully toss the scallops in the flour until they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour before cooking.
3
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, gently add the floured scallops to the pan. Fry the scallops for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring and turning them occasionally, until they are opaque and firm but not browned.
4
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped parsley to the skillet, allowing them to cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
5
Using a slotted spoon, remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle with the fresh lemon juice and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The dish is Crispy Portuguese Bay Scallops with Lemon and Herbs.
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of fresh bay scallops.
How many servings does this scallop recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the first step in preparing the scallops?
Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh bay scallops under cold water and then drying them completely on paper towels.
Why is it important to dry the scallops before frying?
Drying the scallops completely helps achieve a crispier texture while frying.
What is used to coat the scallops?
The scallops are tossed in 1 cup of flour until evenly coated.
Should I remove excess flour from the scallops?
Yes, you should shake off any excess flour before cooking.
What kind of butter is used for frying?
The recipe specifies 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
At what heat should the butter be melted?
The butter should be melted and the scallops fried over low heat.
How long do the bay scallops need to fry?
Fry the scallops for approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
What is the desired texture and appearance of the cooked scallops?
They should be opaque and firm but not browned.
When do I add the garlic and parsley?
Add the minced garlic and chopped parsley after the scallops have fried for 3 to 4 minutes.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of minced garlic clove.
What kind of parsley is used and how much?
Use 3 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley.
How long should the garlic and parsley cook with the scallops?
They should cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
What tool is recommended for removing the scallops from the pan?
A slotted spoon should be used to remove the scallops from the skillet.
How is the dish finished before serving?
The scallops are drizzled with fresh lemon juice and seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The juice from 1/2 of a fresh lemon is used.
What are the primary flavor notes of this dish?
The dish features natural sweetness from the scallops enhanced by garlic, parsley, and bright lemon.
Can this recipe be served as a main course?
Yes, it is suitable as either a light main course or a delightful appetizer.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick recipe suitable for weeknights or special occasions.
How much salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
What type of pepper should be used?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for seasoning.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
This is a Portuguese-inspired dish that honors the natural flavors of seafood.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
Should the scallops be stirred during frying?
Yes, you should stir and turn them occasionally during the frying process.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic clove should be minced.
What is the preparation for the parsley?
The parsley should be finely chopped.
What type of flour is used for the coating?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of standard flour.
Is the serving size or nutritional information available for this recipe?
No, the specific serving size and nutritional details like calories and fat are not provided.