Garlic Butter Bacon Scallops are a savory seafood appetizer that combines the elegance of seared scallops with the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon. This easy scallops recipe starts by pan-searing fresh sea scallops in a sizzling garlic butter sauce until they develop a golden crust.
Thick-cut bacon is cooked separately until crisp, then crumbled over the scallops just before serving. The result is a restaurant-worthy dish that brings together the best of garlic butter scallops and bacon-wrapped scallops, making it perfect for special occasions or quick gourmet dinners.
Gourmet Presentation of Scallops
Imagine a plate adorned with beautifully seared scallops, glistening in a rich garlic butter sauce. Each scallop is perfectly golden brown, showcasing the skill involved in crafting this seafood delight.
Topped with crispy bacon crumbles, this dish not only pleases the palate but also the eyes. The contrast of textures between the tender scallops and the crunchy bacon creates a delightful experience.
Garnished with fresh parsley, the presentation is elevated, making it an ideal choice for any special occasion or a quick gourmet dinner at home.
Flavor Profile of Garlic Butter Bacon Scallops
The combination of garlic butter and bacon brings a savory richness that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. This dish is a perfect representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary.
Each bite offers a burst of flavor, with the garlic butter sauce enveloping the scallops, while the crispy bacon adds a smoky depth. This harmonious blend makes it a standout among seafood appetizers.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This easy scallops recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With a few simple steps, you can transform fresh sea scallops into a restaurant-quality dish.
The preparation involves cooking thick-cut bacon until crispy, then searing the scallops in the rendered fat, allowing them to absorb the delicious flavors. The addition of minced garlic in the final moments of cooking ensures that the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
Serving Suggestions
When serving garlic butter bacon scallops, presentation is key. Arrange the scallops elegantly on a rustic wooden plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine.
Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the scallops for an added touch of indulgence. A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh note that balances the richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information
This seafood appetizer is not only delicious but also relatively light. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a guilt-free option for those looking to indulge without overdoing it.
With 20 grams of protein and only 1 gram of carbohydrates, garlic butter bacon scallops provide a satisfying dish that fits well into various dietary preferences.
Perfect Pairings
To complement the flavors of scallops and bacon, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For a complete meal, serve the scallops alongside a light salad or some roasted vegetables. This combination will create a balanced plate that showcases the scallops while providing a variety of textures and flavors.
Delicious Garlic Butter Bacon Scallops
This dish features tender seared scallops enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with crispy bacon crumbles. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people, making it an ideal choice for seafood appetizers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh sea scallops, patted dry
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sear the Scallops: Increase the heat to medium-high. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add Garlic: In the last minute of cooking the scallops, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir to combine, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
- Combine and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the scallops to a serving plate, drizzle with the remaining melted butter, and top with crispy bacon crumbles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 1g