If you're looking to impress your guests with a dish that screams sophistication and flavor, look no further than Marinated Scallops Wrapped in Bacon! This exquisite seafood delight combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, creating a culinary experience that will leave everyone craving more. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a stunning presentation that will have everyone talking. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your cooking game!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large scallops
- 6 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they will crisp properly when cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place scallops in the marinade and gently coat each one, letting them sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise, creating 12 shorter bacon pieces to wrap around scallops.
- Remove scallops from marinade and pat dry again to prevent excess liquid preventing bacon from crisping.
- Carefully wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed to hold the bacon in place.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure proper searing.
- Place bacon-wrapped scallops in the hot pan, leaving space between each to allow even cooking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, turning carefully to crisp the bacon and cook scallops until they are golden brown and slightly translucent in the center.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley or a lemon wedge if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality scallops. Look for ones that are firm and have a slight sheen.
- Pat Dry: Always pat the scallops dry before marinating. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispness when cooking.
- Marinate Wisely: Allow the scallops to marinate for 10-15 minutes, but don’t exceed this time to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Bacon Selection: Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier wrap that holds up better during cooking and adds extra flavor.
- Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely while the scallops cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each scallop enough space in the pan to allow even cooking and prevent steaming.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the bacon-wrapped scallops rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge adds a pop of color and enhances the dish's appeal when serving.With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and delicious dish that will impress anyone at your dining table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
