Baked Scallops With Orange Sections
Juicy baked scallops infused with orange and dill, offering a fresh, citrusy flavor perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners. Quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Put sea scallops in a 9-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cut orange sections from the white membrane over the baking dish, allowing the juice to fall into the dish.
- Arrange orange sections among the scallops and bake for 8 minutes.
- Add bay scallops to the dish and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
- Broil for an additional 4 minutes until scallops are cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best results, ensure your scallops are dry before baking to achieve a nice sear. If you can't find fresh dill, dried dill can be used, but use about one-third of the amount. You can also experiment with citrus by adding lemon or grapefruit sections for a different flavor profile. This dish pairs well with light Mediterranean recipes like Salade Nicoise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked scallops with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to complement the dish. A light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the scallops. For a complete meal, consider offering a crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, or a side of Baked Fish With Dill Flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Scallops With Orange Sections contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture when baked.
What can I substitute for orange sections?
If you don't have oranges, you can substitute with other citrus fruits like tangerines or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Alternatively, a fruit salsa made with mango could also add a unique twist.
How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done cooking when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should be slightly golden on the edges and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).