Scallops And Rice Au Gratin(Weight Watchers Recipe)
A creamy scallops and rice au gratin featuring tender scallops, melted cheddar, and flavorful vegetables, perfect for a comforting yet light seafood dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Saute chopped onion, celery, and green pepper in a small amount of water in a saucepan until tender.
- Cook until very thick, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in softened margarine and washed, cut-up scallops.
- Layer a casserole dish with cooked rice, scallop mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine to the scallop mixture while cooking. If you're out of cheddar, any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère will work well. To add more flavor, include herbs such as thyme or parsley. For a vegetarian version, substitute scallops with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. This recipe lends itself well to adaptations from American recipes too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also enjoy it alongside a glass of chilled white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the oven will help retain the dish's original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops And Rice Au Gratin(Weight Watchers Recipe) contains roughly 714 calories, with 23g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2738mg per serving (119% 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, frozen scallops can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish. This will help maintain the desired texture and flavor.
What type of rice should I use?
You can use any cooked rice, but long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works best for this recipe. If you're looking for a healthier option, brown rice or cauliflower rice can also be delicious alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the scallop mixture and layer it with the rice and cheese in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.
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).