Scallops are my favorite shellfish. I typically prefer the flavor of perfectly seared scallops, the ones with a golden finish. But you need a dry scallop for a good sear and when working from frozen, it is almost impossible. I found a better way to prepare scallops from frozen: oven bake them! I have made these a few times before posting this recipe and they have come out perfect each time. It is important to start the recipe with thawed scallops. By placing frozen scallops in a strainer and rinsing them under a stream of cool water while you prep the recipe, they should be sufficiently thawed for the recipe.
While the scallops are cooking, I quickly make whole grain angel hair pasta (to serve nested under the scallops) and roasted asparagus. This healthy meal assembles quickly with a delicious finish! Enjoy!
Oven Baked Scallops (serves 2-3)
1 pound frozen bay scallops, thawed
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup whole grain bread crumbs
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, parsley, and salt. Set aside.
Place melted butter in a 8-inch square baking dish. Dry scallops with a paper towel and place in baking dish. Turn each scallop over to lightly coat with butter. Place scallops in a single layer. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the scallops.
Bake in middle rack of oven until just firm, about 20 minutes. Enjoy!