Looking for an appetizer that perfectly combines the sea’s bounty with a smoky, savory twist? Bacon-wrapped scallops are a luxurious yet easy-to-prepare dish that impresses guests and satiates the taste buds. In about five minutes, you’ll learn how to create this exquisite starter that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Whether it’s for a dinner party, special occasion, or a decadent treat for yourself, these scallops are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops, tough muscles removed
- 12 slices of thin-cut bacon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks, for securing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Be cautious with the salt as the bacon will also add saltiness to the dish.
- Wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon, securing the bacon with a toothpick. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. This will help prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is foaming, add the bacon-wrapped scallops. Sear until the bacon is crispy on one side, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and sear the other side. You may need to work in batches to not overcrowd the skillet.
- Once the scallops are seared, transfer them back to the baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through and the bacon is crispy all around.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve the scallops hot, garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for an added zesty flavor.
Notes:
- Pick scallops that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
- If using thicker bacon, you may want to partially cook it in the skillet before wrapping the scallops to ensure it’s fully crisp once the scallops are cooked.
- To prevent toothpicks from burning in the oven, you can soak them in water for about 10 minutes before using.
Conclusion:
Bacon-wrapped scallops are a wonderful delicacy that combines the sweetness of scallops with the rich flavor of bacon. They make for an elegant and mouth-watering appetizer that will undoubtedly be the highlight of any dining experience. You can enjoy these on their own or with a side of greens for a full meal. Bon appétit!