Herbed Baked Scallops
Description:
Elevate your seafood dining with this delightful Herbed Baked Scallops recipe, which showcases tender sea scallops bathed in a flavorful herb and butter mixture, then baked to perfection. Perfect for a quick yet elegant meal, these scallops are sure to impress whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a special night in. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Make and share this culinary delight from Love With Recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your scallops will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.
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Prepare the Scallops: Arrange the sea scallops in a shallow baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out evenly. This allows for uniform cooking and ensures each scallop is properly coated with the flavorful mixture.
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Add Butter: Dot the scallops with small pieces of butter. The butter will melt and create a rich, flavorful base for the scallops as they bake. If you prefer, you can substitute margarine for the butter, though butter provides a richer taste.
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Season with Herbs: Sprinkle the finely chopped Italian parsley, cilantro, and dried basil over the scallops. These fresh herbs will infuse the scallops with a fragrant and aromatic flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
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Bake the Scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. After this initial bake, stir the scallops to ensure they are well coated with the melted butter and herbs.
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Continue Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the scallops are tender and opaque. Be sure not to overcook them; they should be firm yet moist. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the scallops from the oven. Serve immediately to enjoy their full flavor and tender texture. These herbed baked scallops make a perfect appetizer or main dish, paired with a light salad or your favorite side.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 313.4
- Fat: 18.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 11.3 grams
- Cholesterol: 100.4 milligrams
- Sodium: 1046.3 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 0.1 grams
- Protein: 28 grams
Tips:
- For a touch of extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Ensure that the scallops are well-thawed if previously frozen, and pat them dry with a paper towel before arranging them in the baking dish.
Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish, and relish the delightful blend of buttery, herbed goodness with every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, Herbed Baked Scallops are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire! 🦪✨