Baked Sea Scallops are an elegant and easy-to-make seafood dish. These scallops are drizzled with garlic chili oil and baked until tender and buttery. A quick broil at the end adds a golden, crispy finish, while fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of dill enhance the flavor. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or as a fancy addition to a dinner party.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6-8 jumbo sea scallops

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, freshly pressed (or minced)

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1 lemon, sliced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh dill (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use baking shells for a decorative presentation.

2. Prepare the Garlic Chili Oil: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

3. Prepare the Scallops: Arrange the scallops on the baking sheet, then spoon the garlic chili oil mixture over each scallop.

4. Bake the Scallops: Bake the scallops in the oven for about 20 minutes, until they are tender and opaque.

5. Broil for Golden Finish: Optionally, place the scallops under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.

6. Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops, garnish with fresh dill, and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 117 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 7g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 11mg

• Sodium: 187mg

• Potassium: 195mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 1g

• Vitamin A: 162 IU

• Vitamin C: 30mg

• Calcium: 27mg

• Iron: 1mg

The Star of the Dish: Jumbo Sea Scallops

Scallops are a delicacy that stands out for their sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture. When prepared correctly, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The key to cooking perfect scallops is to avoid overcooking, as they can quickly turn rubbery. By baking them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time, you can achieve tender, buttery scallops with a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlic and chili oil mixture.

For this recipe, jumbo sea scallops are used, which are larger and have a more substantial texture compared to smaller bay scallops. These larger scallops provide a satisfying bite and work wonderfully for elegant presentations. When purchasing scallops, it’s important to look for fresh, high-quality options. Fresh scallops should have a slightly sweet smell and a firm texture. If using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture during the baking process.

The Garlic Chili Oil: Flavor and Spice

The garlic chili oil is what elevates this dish from simple to extraordinary. Olive oil forms the base of this flavorful mixture, providing a smooth texture and subtle fruitiness. The garlic adds aromatic depth, while the red pepper flakes introduce a mild heat that complements the natural sweetness of the scallops. The addition of salt and pepper balances the flavors, allowing the scallops to shine without overpowering them.

This mixture is drizzled over each scallop before baking, infusing the seafood with rich, savory flavors. As the scallops bake, the oil mixture melds into the delicate flesh, keeping the scallops moist while providing them with a flavorful coating. If you enjoy a little extra heat, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference, making the dish as spicy as you like.

Baking the Scallops: Tender and Moist

Baking the scallops at 400°F (200°C) ensures that they cook evenly and retain their moisture. The oven temperature is just right for cooking the scallops to a perfect tenderness without overcooking them. When baked, the scallops turn opaque and firm up slightly, retaining their delicate, buttery texture. It typically takes around 20 minutes for the scallops to reach the ideal doneness.

The parchment paper on the baking sheet helps prevent the scallops from sticking while also making cleanup easier. If you want to serve the scallops in a more decorative way, you can use baking shells, which give the dish a more refined and visually appealing presentation.

The Broiler: A Crispy, Golden Finish

For those who like a bit of crunch, broiling the scallops for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking gives them a golden, crispy top. The high heat of the broiler quickly caramelizes the garlic chili oil mixture, creating a crispy layer on top of the scallops while maintaining the tender texture inside. The broiling step adds a beautiful contrast in texture, making each bite more satisfying. Keep a close eye on the scallops while broiling to prevent them from burning, as this step only takes a couple of minutes.

Serving the Scallops: A Fresh Finish

Once the scallops are baked and optionally broiled, they’re ready to be served. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the scallops enhances their natural flavor, adding a bright, zesty element that cuts through the richness of the garlic chili oil. The lemon also brings a refreshing balance to the dish, complementing the savory flavors of the scallops and spices.

Fresh dill is the perfect garnish for this dish, adding a touch of color and a fragrant herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with seafood. The dill is subtle but contributes an additional layer of flavor that enhances the overall profile of the dish. Garnishing with fresh herbs not only adds visual appeal but also provides a fresh contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the scallops.

Nutritional Benefits of Baked Sea Scallops

Baked sea scallops are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits. They are a great source of lean protein, with each serving containing around 6 grams of protein. Scallops are low in fat, with just 7 grams per serving, and they contain a small amount of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They are also relatively low in calories, making them a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

In addition to being a great source of protein, scallops provide essential vitamins and minerals. They are rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which is important for immune function. Scallops also provide a moderate amount of calcium, which supports bone health, and iron, which is vital for the production of red blood cells. The low sodium content makes this dish a great option for those monitoring their salt intake.

A Versatile Dish

Baked Sea Scallops are versatile enough to be served in a variety of ways. They can be paired with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light pasta dish. For a more substantial meal, you can serve the scallops alongside mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto, both of which will complement the delicate flavors of the seafood.

These scallops also make a great appetizer for dinner parties or special occasions. Their elegant presentation and rich flavor profile are sure to impress your guests. You can even serve them as part of a seafood platter with other delicacies such as shrimp, lobster, or crab.

Conclusion

Baked Sea Scallops with garlic chili oil, fresh lemon, and dill are a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings out the natural sweetness and tender texture of the scallops. The garlic chili oil infuses the scallops with rich, savory flavors, while the broiling step adds a golden, crispy finish. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a romantic date night, or as an elegant addition to a dinner party. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, Baked Sea Scallops are a gourmet treat that will leave a lasting impression. Whether served as an appetizer or the main course, this dish is sure to become a favorite.