When it comes to seafood, few options are as decadent and delicious as a perfectly cooked bay scallop. These tender morsels are packed with flavor and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of savory bay scallop recipes, exploring everything from classic seafood dishes to creative twists on traditional flavors.
From creamy pasta sauces to zesty marinades, we’ll showcase 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, these recipes will provide endless inspiration for your next bay scallop adventure.
Garlic Butter Bay Scallops with Lemon Zest
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet elegant recipe, featuring succulent bay scallops smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce and finished with a burst of citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through.
5. Remove scallops from skillet; set aside.
6. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to skillet; stir in lemon zest.
7. Serve scallops with lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Bay Scallop Pasta with White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent dish featuring succulent bay scallops and a rich white wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine
– 1 pound (450g) bay scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and firm.
4. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add white wine and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add cooked fettuccine and scallops back into the skillet, tossing to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Bay Scallops with Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring succulent bay scallops seared to perfection and served with a compound butter infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 bay scallops
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, chives, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season the butter mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat.
5. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove the scallops from the skillet and place on a plate. Top each scallop with a pat of herb butter.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bay Scallop Ceviche with Avocado and Lime
Experience the fresh flavors of the Caribbean with this vibrant ceviche recipe featuring tender bay scallops, creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine the scallops, avocado, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Bay Scallop Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
This creamy risotto recipe combines the sweetness of bay scallops with the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese and the freshness of peas. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 bay scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh peas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. If using wine, add it to the saucepan and cook until absorbed.
4. Warm broth and keep at the ready. Add a ladle of broth to the rice mixture, stirring until almost fully absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 4-cup increments, until rice is cooked.
5. Add bay scallops, Parmesan cheese, and peas to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until scallops are opaque and tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Bay Scallop Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines succulent bay scallops with a medley of colorful vegetables and a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and snow peas; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bay scallops; stir-fry until opaque and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add chili flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds to combine flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bay Scallop Chowder with Crispy Bacon
This creamy chowder is a delicious way to warm up on a chilly day, featuring tender bay scallops and crispy bacon. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this comforting dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook bacon slices in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Add bay scallops and cooked bacon; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bay Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa
Bay Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa Recipe
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of bay scallops and mango salsa in this unique taco recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add the bay scallops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the scallops from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and firm.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled scallops, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bay Scallop and Mushroom Skillet
Bay Scallop and Mushroom Skillet: A Delicious and Quick Weeknight Meal
This recipe combines tender bay scallops with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic for a flavorful and satisfying skillet meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bay scallops; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until opaque and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Bay Scallop Scampi with Garlic and White Wine
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a perfect showcase for the sweet and tender flavor of bay scallops, elevated by the pungency of garlic and the subtle tang of white wine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add scallops; cook 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and slightly firm to touch.
4. Pour in white wine and lemon juice; simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bay Scallop Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines succulent bay scallops with a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light and flavorful meal. The combination of sweet scallops, tangy orange, and herbal parsley creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 navel orange, peeled and segmented
Instructions:
1. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add scallops to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until opaque.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked scallops with citrus vinaigrette in a large bowl. Toss gently.
6. Top with chopped parsley and orange segments. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bay Scallop Gratin with Gruyère Cheese
Bay Scallop Gratin with Gruyère Cheese Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of the ocean and the creaminess of cheese with this simple yet impressive Bay Scallop Gratin recipe. Savor the tender scallops, caramelized in a buttery sauce and topped with a golden-brown crust of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
- 12-15 bay scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add scallops; cook for 1-2 minutes on each side or until browned.
- Add white wine (if using), heavy cream, lemon juice, and mustard to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
- Transfer scallops and sauce to a baking dish. Top with Gruyère cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bay Scallop Kebabs with Lemon-Herb Marinade
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these succulent bay scallop kebabs, perfectly seasoned with a bright and zesty lemon-herb marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add bay scallops to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread scallops onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Bay Scallop and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Bay Scallop and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
A delightful twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the sweetness of bay scallops with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound fresh bay scallops, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the bay scallops and cook until they’re opaque and firm, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and chop into small pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, chopped scallops, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix well to combine.
6. Stuff each shell with the bay scallop mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the shells are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bay Scallop Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
This Southern-inspired sandwich combines succulent bay scallops with crispy fried batter and tangy remoulade sauce, all piled high on a soft baguette. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large bay scallops
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hoagie rolls or baguettes
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dredge scallops in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Dip floured scallops in buttermilk, then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry coated scallops in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried scallops on hoagie rolls or baguettes, topping with remoulade sauce and desired toppings (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Bay Scallop and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the sweetness of corn with the brininess of bay scallops, perfect for a seafood-inspired snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bay scallops, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine scallops, corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter into the hot oil.
6. Cook fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on size of fritters)
Bay Scallop Linguine with Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and light summer pasta dish featuring succulent scallops, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a hint of bay leaves.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 1 pound bay scallops, rinsed and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to serve
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes; cook for 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet; cook for an additional minute to reduce slightly.
6. Add reserved pasta water and parsley to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Combine cooked linguine with scallop-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly ground black pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bay Scallop and Asparagus Stir-Fry
This Asian-inspired stir-fry combines succulent bay scallops with tender asparagus and savory soy sauce, creating a deliciously quick and easy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bay scallops
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the asparagus and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the scallops and stir-fry until they’re opaque and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tender taste of bay scallops with these 18 savory recipes! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Bay Scallops with Lemon Zest to innovative creations like Bay Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover how to pan-sear them with herb butter, create a creamy white wine sauce for pasta, or make a spicy stir-fry with vegetables. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a light and refreshing meal, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
