Scallops With Walnut Butter
Tender scallops are enhanced with a rich walnut butter and aromatic garlic, creating an elegant dish perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- One hour before cooking, wash and drain the scallops.
- Place the scallops in a Zip-loc bag and add beer.
- Refrigerate the scallops in the beer for at least one hour.
- Prepare walnut butter by melting butter and adding sliced garlic and broken walnuts.
- Cook the scallops in the walnut butter until browned and cooked through.
- Serve hot, drizzled with walnut butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh scallops and avoid frozen ones if possible. You can substitute the beer with white wine or vegetable broth if desired. To enhance the walnut butter, consider adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice. Ensure the scallops are patted dry before cooking for a nice sear. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and pairs beautifully with Shrimp Dip And Spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops hot, drizzled with the walnut butter, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a side of sautéed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside pasta or rice. Explore other seafood recipes to complement your meal, such as Cucumber Rounds With Smoked Salmon Mousse.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scallops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their tenderness, adding a bit of butter if needed. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the scallops rubbery. Enjoy them as a quick meal or in a seafood salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops With Walnut Butter contains roughly 865 calories, with 7g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
While fresh scallops are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen scallops if necessary. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What type of beer works best for marinating scallops?
A light lager or a pale ale works best for marinating scallops, as they provide a mild flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering the delicate taste of the scallops. Avoid dark or overly hoppy beers.
How do I know when the scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops are perfectly cooked when they are opaque and have a golden-brown crust on the outside. They should be firm to the touch but not rubbery. Cooking time can vary, so keep a close eye on them during the final stages.
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).