Appetizer & Dessert

Frozen Scallops Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Name: Frozen Scallops Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh parsley; 1 of Juice fresh lemon; 12 fresh sea scallops; 2 tablespoons of clarified butter; Kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder

Rosa Crumley February 15, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Let me take you back to a sunny afternoon at my kitchen table, where the world outside seemed to move in slow motion. I had just returned from the market with a pack of frozen scallops, and my mind raced with dishes I could create.

As I rummaged through my pantry, I began to dream of a vibrant Italian pasta salad. The idea was simple—light, refreshing, and deliciously satisfying.

The combination of cool pasta, chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing would perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the scallops.

Picture this: tender scallops, seared to perfection, nestled amidst colorful fusilli noodles and crunchy bell peppers. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it!

What Are Frozen Scallops?

Frozen scallops are a unique treat from the sea. These sweet, succulent mollusks come from various species of scallops, but the most common are sea scallops and bay scallops. They are chilled quickly after being harvested, preserving their fresh taste and texture.

While some may consider fresh scallops superior, frozen varieties can offer great quality and convenience. Plus, they often come at a more affordable price, making them an accessible choice for many home cooks.

The Ingredients

To whip up a fantastic scallop dish, I gathered the following ingredients:

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
2 tablespoons of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh parsley
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
12 fresh sea scallops
2 tablespoons of clarified butter (or ghee)
Kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder

How to Make Frozen Scallops

Cooking frozen scallops isn’t tricky, but it does require some finesse. You’ll need to defrost them first, but once they’re ready, you’ll see how simple it is to create a delicious dish.

This meal will have you feeling like a gourmet chef in no time.

Step 1: Thaw the Scallops

First things first, we need to get those scallops thawed. Place the scallops in a bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them sit for about an hour. Changing the water once is helpful to remove any excess ice.

Step 2: Pat Dry

Once the scallops are fully thawed, take them out of the water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial. Moisture can prevent that wonderful sear we’re after.

Step 3: Season

Next, season the scallops generously with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. The seasonings create a great foundation of flavor.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the clarified butter over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to sizzle when you add the scallops. This creates a perfect sear.

Step 5: Sear the Scallops

Carefully add the scallops to the pan, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Let them cook for about two to three minutes without moving them. This allows a golden crust to form. Flip them over using tongs and cook for another two minutes.

Step 6: Add Finishers

Once the scallops are cooked through and golden, drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice in the pan. Toss in the smoked paprika and parsley, letting the flavors meld together for a minute.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Finally, serve those beautiful scallops over your vibrant pasta salad. Bon appétit!

Notes

Thaw Carefully: Always use cold water for thawing. This ensures that the scallops retain their firm texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Leave space between scallops in the pan to allow them to sear evenly.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients elevate the dish. Choose fresh herbs and a good olive oil.
Don’t Overcook: Scallops are best cooked to a translucent center. If they turn opaque throughout, they’re overdone.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to modify the seasonings. Add chili flakes for heat or herbs for a different flair.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftover scallops (let’s be honest, I rarely do!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

For frozen scallops, keep them in the freezer until you’re ready to use them. Avoid refreezing thawed scallops as it may compromise their quality.

Serving Suggestions

In case you’re wondering how else to savor these scallops, here are some serving ideas that’ll take your culinary experience up a notch:

Over Lemon Herb Risotto: The creaminess of risotto pairs wonderfully with the briny taste of scallops.
With Garlic Butter Noodles: Toss some pasta in garlic butter for a simple yet yummy meal.
On a Bed of Arugula: Fresh greens add a peppery crunch to contrast the scallops’ sweetness.
In Tacos with Salsa: Scallop tacos with a zesty mango salsa create a refreshing twist.
As Part of a Seafood Boil: Combine scallops with shrimp, crab, corn, and potatoes for a feast.

Substitute Ideas for Frozen Scallops

Not a fan of scallops? No problem! Here are five great substitutes that hold their own in many recipes:

Shrimp: Sweet and versatile. Shrimp can easily replace scallops in any dish, retaining that ocean flavor.
Fish Fillets: Use white fish like cod or halibut. They’re mild and flaky and can be baked or pan-seared like scallops.
Bay Scallops: Smaller but just as sweet. These can work well in pasta dishes or salads, offering a different texture.
Seared Tofu: A vegetarian option. For a plant-based twist, marinated and seared tofu can mimic scallops’ texture.
Crab Meat: Lump crab adds richness. Use it in salads or as a topping to give dishes an indulgent touch.

Conclusion

Cooking frozen scallops has never been easier, and they can transform your dinner into an extraordinary experience. Beyond the simple technique, the versatility of this ingredient leaves room for creativity.

As I finished my plate that sunny afternoon, I realized how important it is to embrace the flavors we love, no matter how simple the dish might be.

Italian pasta salad and perfectly seared scallops not only satisfied my cravings but also reminded me of the joy that comes from cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.

So, fire up your pans and dive into this culinary adventure. Enjoy the delightful surprise that frozen scallops can bring to your table!

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Print Recipe

Frozen Scallops Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 158 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As I rummaged through my pantry, I began to dream of a vibrant Italian pasta salad. The idea was simple—light, refreshing, and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

2 tablespoons of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh parsley

1 of Juice fresh lemon

12 fresh sea scallops

2 tablespoons of clarified butter (or ghee)

Kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder