Baked Sea Scallops with Garlic, Lemon, and Dill Recipe
Introduction
Baked sea scallops are a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe highlights their natural sweetness with a garlicky, slightly spicy oil and fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredients
- 6-8 jumbo sea scallops
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly pressed or minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You can use baking shells or place the scallops directly on the sheet.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Spoon this garlicky oil evenly over the scallops.
- Step 3: Bake the scallops for 20 minutes. For a golden brown top, broil for an additional 2 minutes if desired. The scallops will be fully cooked after 20 minutes.
- Step 4: Once baked, add a splash of fresh lemon juice and garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh scallops if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- You can add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
Storage
Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave to avoid overcooking and drying out the scallops.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
How can I tell when scallops are fully cooked?
Cooked scallops become opaque and firm to the touch but should remain tender and slightly springy inside. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before baking for the best results.
PrintBaked Sea Scallops with Garlic, Lemon, and Dill Recipe
This simple and flavorful baked sea scallops recipe features jumbo scallops seasoned with garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil, then baked to perfection and garnished with fresh lemon and dill. It’s a quick, elegant dish perfect for seafood lovers looking for a healthy and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Sea Scallops
- 6–8 jumbo sea scallops
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly pressed or minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 lemon (sliced, plus a splash of fresh lemon juice)
- Fresh dill for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. You may use baking shells for an elegant presentation or place the scallops directly on the baking sheet.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small glass bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly pressed or minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This garlicky oil will infuse the scallops with vibrant flavor.
- Season Scallops: Using a spoon, evenly distribute the garlic and oil mixture over the sea scallops, ensuring each one is well coated.
- Bake Scallops: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the scallops for 20 minutes. This allows them to cook through gently and retain moisture.
- Optional Broil for Color: If desired, broil the scallops for an additional 2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top. This step is optional as scallops are fully cooked after 20 minutes.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove scallops from the oven. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice over them and garnish with fresh dill. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook scallops as they can become tough and rubbery.
- Using fresh garlic pressed rather than minced intensifies the flavor, but minced garlic works well too.
- Red pepper flakes can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
- Serve with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Baking shells, if used, enhance presentation but are optional.
Keywords: baked sea scallops, garlic scallops, seafood recipe, easy baked scallops, lemon dill scallops
