Scallops Nantucket
Delicate scallops baked with seasoned bread crumbs, lemon, and vermouth create a flavorful, elegant dish perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place scallops in a large ovenproof casserole dish.
- Drizzle each portion with 1 tablespoon melted butter, 2 tablespoons dry vermouth, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
- Top with fresh seasoned bread crumbs.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until scallops are almost firm.
- Top with grated cheese and bake 2 minutes longer until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve with a side of pasta and a fresh green salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy to the vermouth. If you don't have fresh seasoned bread crumbs, you can use store-bought ones, but enhance them with dried herbs like thyme or parsley. Make sure the scallops are patted dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear. Adjust the lemon juice to your taste; more acidity can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Scallops Nantucket alongside a light pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic for a delightful meal. A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch. For a special touch, consider serving with a slice of Mary'S Orange Blossom Muffins as a sweet contrast to the savory scallops.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the scallops in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops Nantucket contains roughly 738 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 480mg per serving (21% 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 make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help achieve the best texture and flavor. If scallops are still icy, they will release moisture and won't sear properly.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
A sprinkle of Gruyère or Parmesan cheese works wonderfully for this dish. Both melt beautifully and add a rich, savory flavor. Experiment with other cheeses as well, but avoid those with strong flavors that may overpower the scallops.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the scallops and bread crumb topping ahead of time. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).