Sweet Vidalia Onion Scallops
Sweet Vidalia Onion Scallops combine tender caramelized onions, green peppers, and pimentos with cheesy, crispy layers, creating a rich, savory dish perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the Vidalia onions; melt 1/4 cup butter in a skillet.
- Add the sliced onions and chopped green peppers to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Stir in the chopped pimentos.
- Place half of the onion mixture in a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese and 1/2 cup cracker crumbs.
- Repeat the layers with remaining onion mixture and cheese.
- Beat the eggs with light cream, salt, and white pepper, then pour over the layered onions.
- Combine the remaining cracker crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using shallots instead of Vidalia onions for a different sweetness. If you want a lighter dish, substitute half of the Swiss cheese with a lower-fat cheese. To prevent the dish from becoming too watery, ensure the onions are well-cooked before layering. You can also add some cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sweet Vidalia Onion Scallops warm as a main dish or as a decadent side. It pairs beautifully with Whole Wheat Potato Rolls or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A side of roasted vegetables or a light vinaigrette can enhance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Hot Caramel Apple Cider for a comforting finish.
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. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a versatile option for lunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Vidalia Onion Scallops contains roughly 293 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 11g 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onion mixture and layer it in the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pour the egg and cream mixture over the top and bake as directed. This allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the dish.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
If you don't have Swiss cheese, you can substitute with Gruyère for a similar nutty flavor or use mozzarella for a milder taste. Cheddar can also work, but it will change the flavor profile slightly, so choose based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products. The combination of onions, peppers, and cheese provides a satisfying meal. For a heartier option, consider adding beans or legumes to the mixture for extra protein.
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).