Italian Scallops
Italian Scallops are a delightful appetizer or main course featuring tender scallops marinated in garlic, olive oil, and butter, then lightly breaded and fried to perfection. Their rich, buttery flavor complemented by crispy coating makes them perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, melted butter, and crushed garlic in a bowl.
- Coat the scallops with the mixture and let marinate at room temperature for 1 to 4 hours.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 inch of oil to 350°F.
- Bread the marinated scallops with bread crumbs.
- Fry the scallops in the hot oil for about 2 minutes on each side until golden.
- Place fried scallops on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce for dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the marinade. For a lighter option, substitute half of the butter with additional olive oil. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the scallops may absorb too much oil. For extra crunch, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones. Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried scallops hot, accompanied by lemon wedges and cocktail sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with a light pasta dish, such as Linguine With White Clam Sauce, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete Italian meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread or a seafood-inspired risotto.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make them rubbery. Fried scallops are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Scallops contains roughly 992 calories, with 12g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg per serving (33% 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 ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and frying. This helps achieve a crispy texture. For best results, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
What type of scallops should I use?
Dry scallops, which are often labeled as 'diver scallops' or 'dry-packed,' are preferable as they have a firmer texture and better flavor. Avoid wet scallops, which are treated with additives and can release excess moisture when cooked.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Italian scallops, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This ensures you still get that crispy coating without the gluten.
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).