Scallops are undeniably among my favorite foods, and for good reason. These delicious shellfish are not only a culinary delight but also a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal. Their distinct texture and subtle flavor make them an excellent choice for a range of dishes. One of the most appealing aspects of scallops is their convenience; they are extremely easy to prepare, needing very little cooking time, making them perfect for both hectic weeknights and sophisticated luncheons or dinner parties.
Preparing Scallops for Cooking!
1. Make sure the mollusk’s shell is tightly shut. Place it on a cutting board and use an oyster shucking knife (or other sturdy sharp knife) to slightly open the shell at the hinge.
2. Turn the scallop over and run a flexible knife, like a fish filleting knife, over the flat side of the shell to release the scallop. Open the shell fully and use a spoon to free the scallop from the bottom shell.
3. Remove all the pieces around the meat of the scallop by pulling off the frill, the black stomach, and any other parts, leaving just the white flesh and any coral.
4. Rinse the scallop thoroughly in cold water before cooking.
Barbecued Scallops Skewers!
Ingredients:
Large scallops, onion and/ or red and green peppers
Olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sea salt and ground pepper
You will need either metal or wooden skewers
Preparation Method:
If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning on the barbecue. Preheat the barbecue.
Skewer the scallops along with slices of onion and/or red and green peppers.
Coat with olive oil and grill each side for approximately 1 - 2 minutes until fully cooked and a bit charred. Note: The cooking time will vary based on the size of the scallops!
Once cooked, place on serving dish and squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the scallops and sprinkle with sea salt and coarsely ground pepper.
Serve on its own or with garlic or herb mayonnaise (optional), salads of choice or top with any light sauce or broth you love!
Parma Ham-wrapped Scallops with Rosemary!
The combination of a crunchy, salty Parma ham layer with the sweet tenderness of large scallops is divine! This delightful dish is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for special occasions or when hosting with limited time!
Ingredients for 4 Persons
12 King’s scallops
6 slices of Parma ham cut in half
2 tblsp olive oil + 25g butter
Fresh rosemary, to taste
¼ - ½ cup water
A dash of aromatic white wine, optional
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Preparation Method
Detach the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse them under cold water, and then dry them completely.
Wrap each scallop with half a slice of Parma ham. In a frying pan, heat the oil together with the butter and add the scallops, cooking them for approximately one to two minutes per side.
Add the fresh rosemary, water, and a splash of white wine. Shake the pan and let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. Add pepper for seasoning and serve right away.
Tips!
I like to serve this dish in the cooking pan with juices and crusty bread.
For something more substantial, serve with rice, vegetable risotto or orzo pasta.
©KaritasM – February 2025
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