How to Cook Scallops

Scallops have long been gracing the tables of fine dining establishments around the world. But did you know that you can create restaurant-quality scallops right in your own kitchen?

These half-shell Hokkaido scallops are perfect for pasta or mornay.

While scallops might be considered a luxury in some households, they are becoming increasingly accessible. Online seafood marketplaces have made it easier than ever to source high-quality scallops, bringing gourmet cooking within reach. Imagine effortlessly preparing dishes like seared scallops with celery salad or delighting your family with pancetta-wrapped Hokkaido scallops. With high-quality scallops now just a click away, turning your kitchen into a culinary haven is simpler than ever.

Why are Scallops so Good?

With their naturally sweet and delicate flavour, scallops appeal to a wide range of palates. They present a combination of seafood and buttery richness that goes well with various sauces and seasonings.

The key to their appeal lies in their versatility—scallops can be seared, grilled, baked or even enjoyed raw in ceviche. Their succulent flesh makes them a favourite among the most discerning seafood lovers. If you haven’t tried scallops yet, now is the perfect time!

Where to Find the Best Scallops

Make sure to buy scallops from a reliable source. You have two primary options: sea scallops and bay scallops. Sea scallops, known for their larger size and sweeter flavour, are ideal for pan-searing and grilling. Bay scallops, on the other hand, are smaller and often used in soups and stews.

Have trouble finding scallops? These Tasmanian scallops are available year-round.

When buying scallops, go for dry scallops— they have not been treated with chemical additives or preservatives. To make sure the scallops don’t have chemical additives, ask your fishmonger or check the label when shopping online.

Are Frozen Scallops Any Good?

Yes, frozen scallops can be good, but their quality largely depends on how they were frozen and stored. When scallops are frozen promptly and correctly, they can retain their natural flavour and texture.

With leading online seafood marketplaces like Manettas, you can be sure you’re getting the best-quality scallops, which have been frozen and packaged following industry standards.

When it comes to frozen scallops, this Queensland scallop meat is an absolute must-try.

How to Store, Thaw and Prepare Scallops

Storing scallops

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of scallops. Store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator at temperatures between 0°C and 2°C (32°F and 35°F). Additionally, keep them in an airtight container and consume them within two days for the best flavour and texture.

Thawing scallops

If your scallops are frozen, it’s important to thaw them properly to avoid excess moisture. Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Place the frozen scallops in a sealed plastic bag.
2. Submerge the bag in cold water for 30-45 minutes, changing the water every 15 minutes.
3. Once thawed, remove the scallops from the bag, pat them dry with a paper towel and proceed with the cooking instructions.

Preparing scallops

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your scallops properly. Follow these steps:

1. Pat dry: Use paper towels to pat the scallops dry gently. Moisture can hinder the searing process, so make sure they’re as dry as possible.
2. Season generously: Season your scallops with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavour.
3. Heat your pan: Preheat a large frying pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. A hot pan is crucial for achieving a perfect sear.
4. Add oil: Add a small amount of olive oil to the heated pan. Swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly.

Want larger sea scallops? Check out these Hokkaido sea scallops without the shell.

3 Ways to Cook Scallops

Anyone who hasn’t tried scallops will be surprised at how versatile they are in the kitchen. Scallops can be prepared in various ways, each offering a unique flavour and texture. Here are three popular methods:

Pan-seared scallops

Pan-searing is perhaps the most popular method for cooking scallops. Follow this basic recipe:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat.
3. Place the seasoned scallops in the oiled skillet in a single layer, ensuring enough space between them.
4. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and become slightly soft in the centre.
5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and serve immediately.

Grilled scallops

Want to see how your scallops would look with some tempting grill marks? Here’s a simple way to grill scallops for that smoky flavour everybody loves:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Place them directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and grill-marked. The direct heat and quick cooking time help keep the scallops tender and moist.
4. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and serve your grilled scallops as a delightful appetiser or main course.

Baked scallops

Baking is a gentle method that allows the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through. Try this baked scallops recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Arrange the seasoned scallops on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with melted butter and a touch of white wine for added flavour.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the scallops are opaque and tender.
5. Serve your baked scallops with garlic and lemon sauce for a delectable dish.

Ever tried scallop sashimi?

What Perfectly Cooked Scallops Look Like

Achieving the ideal texture may take some practice, but rest assured that your effort is well worth it. Whether you choose to pan-sear, grill or bake your scallops, perfectly cooked scallops should exhibit the following characteristics:

• A golden brown sear on the outside
• A slightly soft centre that is still translucent but not raw
• A delicate, sweet aroma

How to Serve Scallops

Have we mentioned that scallops are extremely versatile? They pair beautifully with various accompaniments, and these are just a few serving suggestions:

• Serve scallops on a bed of pasta with garlic butter sauce for a comforting and elegant meal.
• Create a scallop salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes and a zesty vinaigrette.
• Pair scallops with your favourite vegetables and a drizzle of white wine reduction for a restaurant-worthy dish.
• Serve scallops as an appetiser on a platter with toothpicks for easy enjoyment at parties.

No matter how you choose to serve your scallops, remember to season them well and enjoy them while they’re warm.

Flinders Island scallop meat with roe, also available at Manettas

Enjoy the Best Scallop Dishes at Home

Learning how to cook scallops can open up a world of culinary possibilities. It won’t take long for you to realise that restaurant-style scallop dishes won’t take much—whether you prefer the rich flavours of pan-searing, the smokiness of grilling or the gentleness of baking.

Time to head to your local seafood market, pick up some scallops and get ready to create delicious seafood dishes that will rival your favourite restaurant’s offerings. Or, take the easier route and buy scallops from Manettas, so you won’t have to step outside your house.