Certainly! Here is a detailed 3000-word article on **Garlic Butter Baked Scallops** that covers the recipe, tips, nutritional benefits, variations, and more.

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# Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Luxurious Seafood Delight You Can Master at Home

Seafood lovers, rejoice! There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into tender, juicy scallops glazed with rich garlic butter and baked to golden perfection. Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are not only a gourmet treat but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making them an ideal dish for impressing guests or indulging in a weeknight luxury.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, including detailed recipes, cooking techniques, variations, nutritional insights, and expert tips. By the end, you’ll be equipped to turn fresh scallops into a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

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## What Makes Scallops Special?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s understand why scallops are such a prized seafood.

### What Are Scallops?

Scallops are bivalve mollusks that live in saltwater and are prized for their delicate, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture. The part most commonly consumed is the “adductor muscle,” the round, meaty portion that allows the scallop to open and close.

### Types of Scallops

* **Sea Scallops:** Larger and meatier, typically 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, ideal for searing or baking.
* **Bay Scallops:** Smaller and sweeter, best suited for sautés, soups, or salads.

Sea scallops are generally preferred for baking due to their size and firmer texture.

### Nutritional Profile

Scallops are a nutritional powerhouse:

* High in protein (about 20g per 3 oz serving)
* Low in calories (about 100 calories per 3 oz)
* Rich in vitamins B12, D, and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and selenium
* Low in fat and carbohydrates

They’re a heart-healthy, nutrient-dense choice for any diet.

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## Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients:

* Fresh sea scallops (about 1 lb for 4 servings)
* Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
* Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced)
* Lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
* Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional: paprika or red chili flakes for a slight kick
* Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory topping

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## Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

### Step 1: Preparing the Scallops

* If your scallops are frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for 30-60 minutes.
* Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they sear and bake properly. Moisture is the enemy of a good crust.
* Remove the side muscle if still attached — it looks like a small rectangular flap on the side of the scallop.

### Step 2: Making the Garlic Butter

* In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
* Add minced garlic and gently cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the dish.
* Remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley.

### Step 3: Arranging Scallops for Baking

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
* Arrange the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch to allow even cooking.
* Spoon the garlic butter generously over each scallop. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional paprika or chili flakes.

### Step 4: Baking the Scallops

* Bake uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. The scallops should turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch but still tender inside. Avoid overcooking as scallops become rubbery quickly.
* Optional: In the last 2 minutes, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil for a minute or two to get a golden crust.

### Step 5: Serving Suggestions

* Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
* Serve immediately with sides such as crusty bread, garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

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## Tips for Choosing and Handling Scallops

* **Freshness is key:** Buy scallops that smell like the ocean — fresh and briny, not fishy or sour.
* **Dry vs. wet scallops:** Dry scallops are untreated and ideal for baking or searing because they caramelize better. Wet scallops are treated with sodium tripolyphosphate and retain water, which can hinder browning and flavor. Always ask your fishmonger.
* **Don’t overcrowd:** Overcrowding scallops in the pan or dish causes steaming instead of browning or baking properly.
* **Room temperature:** Let scallops come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.

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## Variations and Enhancements

### 1. **Herb and Citrus Infusion**

Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill to the garlic butter for extra depth. Try zesting lemon or orange peel into the butter for a citrus burst.

### 2. **Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops**

Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the butter for heat.

### 3. **Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce**

Finish baked scallops with a drizzle of cream or a splash of white wine in the garlic butter for a rich, luxurious sauce.

### 4. **Scallop Gratin**

Top scallops with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs before baking for a crunchy golden crust.

### 5. **Asian-inspired Twist**

Add a teaspoon of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the garlic butter. Garnish with sliced scallions for an umami-packed dish.

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## Nutritional Benefits of Scallops and Garlic Butter

### Why Scallops are Good for You:

* **Protein-rich:** Scallops provide all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and general health.
* **Low in fat:** Heart-friendly, low in saturated fats.
* **Rich in minerals:** Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. Magnesium supports nerve and muscle function.
* **Vitamin B12:** Essential for nerve health and red blood cell formation.

### Garlic Butter in Moderation:

* **Garlic benefits:** Garlic is known for its immune-boosting, antibacterial, and cardiovascular benefits. It may help lower cholesterol and improve circulation.
* **Butter caution:** Butter is rich in saturated fat; moderation is key. Use unsalted butter to control sodium levels. Consider blending with olive oil for a healthier fat profile.

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