What You’ll Need
- 1 pound of frozen scallops
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Thaw the Scallops
Before you begin, make sure to properly thaw the frozen scallops. Remove them from the freezer and place them in a bowl in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process will help maintain the texture and flavor of the scallops.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the scallops from sticking.
Step 3: Season the Scallops
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning for the scallops.
Step 4: Coat the Scallops
Remove the scallops from the refrigerator and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place them in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the prepared seasoning over the scallops, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Scallops
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and slightly golden on top. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in rubbery scallops.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy the delicious flavors and tender texture of your easy baked frozen scallops!
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to enhance your baked scallops:
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the scallops before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the scallops in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy and flavorful crust.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, paprika, or chili flakes to customize the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Baking frozen scallops is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this delightful seafood. With the right seasoning and cooking technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful scallops every time. Try this easy recipe and impress your family and friends with a delectable dish that will leave them wanting more!