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Scallops or king scallops with olive oil from the oven are an elegant seafood dish that combines tender scallop meat with the aroma of extra virgin olive oil. Served in their own shells, they impress with both presentation and taste. Excellent as an appetizer, main course or for special occasions when you want to delight guests with elegance and freshness of the sea. If you wish, you can add a small piece of your favourite cheese and a little breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Ingredients for scallops or king scallops with olive oil from the oven (serves 4)
- 8 fresh scallops (with shells)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- salt
- pepper
- optional: small cubes of cheese (parmesan, or your favourite)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- lemon slices for serving
Method
1Preheat the oven to 200 °C (top and bottom heat or ventilated setting). Carefully open the scallops and remove the meat along with the orange part. Rinse the shells well and keep for serving.
2Place the scallops back into the clean shells and arrange on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil (so the shells stay upright).
3Drizzle the scallops with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, parsley, salt and pepper and add a dash of lemon juice. Now add small cheese cubes and top with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
4Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the scallop meat turns slightly golden but remains soft inside. Do not overbake to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.
5Serve warm with lemon slices on the side. Scallops can also be served as an appetizer or light main course.
Tips for perfect oven-baked scallops
• Scallops must be very fresh – this way they retain their sweetness and texture.
• Bake them just enough so the meat stays tender and does not dry out.
• Keep the shells in the oven before serving – they will stay warm longer.
• For better aroma, add a small piece of butter into each shell before baking.
• If you add breadcrumbs, make sure the fat melts into them and forms a crispy layer while the scallops stay tender inside.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where do scallops live?
Scallops live attached to rocks and sandbanks. They have white meat and an orange part (gonad) that is very tasty. They are considered a real delicacy around the world.
How to store scallops correctly?
Keep scallops in the refrigerator and prepare them as soon as possible after purchase, as they spoil quickly.
What goes well on the side?
Scallops go perfectly with rice and seasonal vegetables. They also pair well with crispy white bread and a glass of chilled white wine.
