Scallops Exceptional
A quick, flavorful seafood dish featuring tender scallops sautéed with broccoli, peppers, and aromatic basil, all melted with Velveeta cheese for a creamy, satisfying meal. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking comfort and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute broccoli, red pepper strips, minced garlic, and basil in margarine until tender.
- Add scallops; continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until tender.
- Stir in Velveeta cheese and sherry; cook until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresh twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. If you don't have Velveeta, any creamy cheese like Gouda or even a vegan cheese substitute can work well. To save time, prep your vegetables ahead of time, and try to use fresh broccoli for the best flavor. Pair this dish with a side of Cole Slaw - Oh So Easy! for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or steamed green beans for added freshness. You can also serve it alongside a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors. For a larger spread, consider offering Sugar-Free Easy Party Punch as a refreshing beverage option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent overcooking the scallops.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops Exceptional contains roughly 444 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (185% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary slightly with frozen scallops, so watch them closely.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can easily substitute margarine with butter or olive oil if you prefer. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Each substitute will slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they'll all work well in this dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the scallops and replace them with tofu or a hearty vegetable like mushrooms. You can still follow the same cooking process, ensuring that the cheese sauce remains rich and flavorful. This adaptation can also fit into vegan recipes with appropriate cheese substitutes.
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).