Recipe Background
Oven-Kissed Scallops offer a crispy exterior and tender interior.
In a dish like these Oven-Kissed Scallops, the magic comes in the brief yet powerful kiss of heat from the oven. As they bake, the rich aroma of toasted breadcrumbs mingles with the scent of melted Parmesan, creating a warmth that fills the kitchen. There's a touch of paprika and cayenne to give an unexpected whisper of spice—perfectly balanced against the sweetness of the scallops.
Texture is where these scallops truly shine. The panko crust adds just the right amount of crunchy contrast to the tender, juicy scallops beneath. Remember to dry your scallops thoroughly before cooking, as this helps achieve that golden finish on the breadcrumb topping. It's this combination of crisp exterior and succulent interior that makes each bite memorable.
When it comes time to share, these scallops are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. They make a lovely centerpiece at a cozy dinner gathering. With their elegant appearance and complex flavors, you'll find they're not just a dish, but an experience—a chance to savor, interact, and perhaps even impress.
Ingredients
- 16 large sea scallops
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Dry the scallops well with paper towels. Remove any attached side-muscle remaining on them by pinching and tearing it away.
- In a small bowl, add the salt, the pepper, the paprika, the cayenne, the breadcrumbs, the parmesan, the parsley, the olive oil, and the butter and stir to combine.
- Place the scallops into an 8x10-inch baking dish and sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake the scallops until the breadcrumb mixture is browned, about 15-18 minutes.
- Serve.
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