Scallops Portuguese
Tender scallops lightly coated in seasoned flour, quickly cooked with garlic and finished with fresh parsley, creating a flavorful dish perfect for seafood lovers. Suitable for elegant dinners or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and drain the fresh scallops.
- Dust the scallops with seasoned flour (flour, salt, pepper).
- Heat salad oil in a pan.
- Add the scallops and minced garlic to the hot oil.
- Cook quickly for about 8 minutes, tossing lightly in hot fat.
- Just before removing from heat, add chopped parsley.
- Toss scallops to coat with parsley and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh scallops and avoid overcooking them; they should be opaque and firm. If you don't have parsley, fresh cilantro or basil can be a suitable substitute. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This recipe pairs beautifully with **Baked Fish And Hush Puppies**.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish well. For a delightful pairing, consider serving with a glass of white wine or a light cocktail like a **French Chantilly Cocktail**.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery. You can also enjoy them cold in a salad for a refreshing twist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops Portuguese contains roughly 289 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (140% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2661mg per serving (116% 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 be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear. Frozen scallops may require slightly longer cooking time, so monitor them closely.
What can I substitute for salad oil?
If you don't have salad oil, you can use olive oil or melted butter for a richer flavor. Both will complement the garlic and parsley beautifully while cooking the scallops.
How do I know when scallops are cooked properly?
Scallops are properly cooked when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should not be rubbery; ideally, they should take about 3-4 minutes per side depending on their size. Remove them from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
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).