Bay Scallops
Creamy bay scallops cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with wine and cream, perfect for elegant dinners or seafood lovers seeking rich, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle scallops with salt.
- Melt butter in a skillet with garlic powder.
- Saute scallops on medium heat for about 10 minutes until opaque. Pour off juice from scallops.
- Add white wine, heavy cream, and sour cream to the skillet.
- Add cornstarch to the sauce and stir to thicken.
- Simmer the mixture for 8 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh bay scallops and avoid overcooking them, as they can become tough. If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be a good substitute. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream and increase the sour cream slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Serve over pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside steamed vegetables or a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the scallops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bay Scallops contains roughly 590 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% 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 bay scallops instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen bay scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also use crème fraîche for a richer taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. You can also sauté some diced jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the garlic powder for an extra kick.
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).