Peppery Scallops
Peppery scallops feature tender, succulent seafood topped with a crunchy seasoned breadcrumb crust, perfect for quick elegant dinners or entertaining seafood lovers. The bold flavors highlight the natural sweetness of scallops with a spicy pepper kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse scallops and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, toss scallops with melted margarine to coat well.
- On waxed paper, mix bread crumbs, dried basil, seasoned pepper, and salt.
- Dip one flat side of each scallop into the bread crumb mixture.
- Place scallops, breaded side up, on a rack in a broiling pan.
- Broil scallops 5 minutes in the closest position to the heat source, until the bread crumb topping is golden and scallops are opaque throughout.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose dry sea scallops, as they hold up better during cooking. If you don't have margarine, butter can be used as a substitute for a richer flavor. To add a twist, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the bread crumbs for extra flavor. Ensure the scallops are patted dry to achieve a crispier coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these peppery scallops over a bed of fresh greens or alongside a light pasta dish for a delightful meal. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a refreshing salad to enhance the flavors. They also make a great starter for a seafood-themed dinner, complementing dishes like Pawley'S Inn Crab Cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 Peppery Scallops contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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
How can I tell when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, typically taking about 5 minutes under the broiler. If they are translucent, they need more time. Avoid overcooking, as scallops can become tough.
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).