Crispy Buttermilk Baked Scallops with Lemon and Thyme

Legal Seafood-Style Baked Scallops

Whenever you find yourself in the Boston area, dining at Legal Seafoods is a must-do, and this recipe aims to bring that iconic seafood experience right to your kitchen. Discovered in a collection of old newspaper clippings, this rendition of Legal Seafood’s baked scallops has been perfected with the inclusion of buttermilk, which was the missing ingredient in previous attempts. The result is a dish that’s as delightful as it is reminiscent of those treasured seafood meals. With just a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish becomes a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Boston’s culinary scene.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of sea scallops: Fresh and plump, these are the stars of the dish. Choose high-quality sea scallops for the best results.
• Fresh thyme leaves: About 1 tablespoon, finely chopped. This herb adds a fragrant, earthy note.
• 1 cup buttermilk: The key ingredient that adds richness and tenderness to the scallops.
• 1/2 cup butter: Melted, to be drizzled over the scallops for a luscious finish.
• 1 lemon: Juiced, for a bright and zesty kick. You’ll squeeze it over the scallops just before serving.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the scallops cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.

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2. Prepare the Scallops:
   In a large bowl, place the sea scallops. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Add the finely chopped fresh thyme leaves, which will infuse the scallops with a delightful herby flavor. Pour in the buttermilk and gently toss to coat all the scallops evenly. The buttermilk not only tenderizes the scallops but also creates a creamy texture that’s essential for this recipe.

3. Assemble the Dish:
   Transfer the scallops along with the buttermilk mixture into an ovenproof dish. Make sure to spread them out evenly so they cook uniformly. Sprinkle a layer of cracker crumbs over the scallops to create a crispy topping. Drizzle the melted butter over the crumbs. This step adds a rich, golden crunch that complements the creamy scallops perfectly.

4. Bake to Perfection:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. During this time, the scallops will cook through, and the top will become beautifully crispy and golden.

5. Finish and Serve:
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops to add a bright, tangy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

These baked scallops are perfect on their own or as a luxurious appetizer for a special meal. Pair them with a light green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal. For a touch of spice, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cracker crumbs before baking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 520.4
• Fat: 31.3g
• Saturated Fat: 16.6g
• Cholesterol: 116.8mg
• Sodium: 1387.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 28.2g
• Fiber: 0.9g
• Sugar: 4.1g
• Protein: 30.9g

Tips:

• Ensure the scallops are as dry as possible before coating them with the buttermilk mixture to avoid excess liquid that can affect the crispiness of the topping.
• For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cracker crumbs before baking.

This recipe is a true homage to the beloved seafood dishes of Boston and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. Enjoy the rich, buttery flavors and crispy texture that make these scallops a standout dish! 🍽️🦪🍋