Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Elegant bacon-wrapped scallops with a perfect sear, combining sweet, tender scallops with crispy bacon for the ultimate appetizer at 165 calories per serving.
15m
6
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Ingredients
- 18 large sea scallops (about 1.5 lbs), side muscles removed
- 9 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 18 wooden toothpicks, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- 1
Prepare Scallops
Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels and remove any side muscles. Season lightly with black pepper and paprika on both sides.
- 2
Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick. The bacon should wrap around once with slight overlap.
- 3
Heat Pan
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- 4
Sear First Side
Place wrapped scallops in the pan, ensuring they don't touch each other. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bacon begins to crisp and scallops develop a golden crust.
- 5
Flip and Finish
Carefully flip each scallop and cook for another 2-3 minutes until bacon is crispy and scallops are opaque but still tender in the center.
- 6
Add Aromatics
Add butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the pan. Tilt pan and baste scallops with the aromatic butter for 30 seconds.
- 7
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Chef's Tips
Don't overcook the scallops - they should be golden outside but still slightly translucent in the center. If bacon isn't crisping fast enough, start cooking bacon halfway before wrapping scallops.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this bacon-wrapped scallops
How long does it take to make Bacon-Wrapped Scallops?
This recipe takes 25 minutes total time, including 15 minutes prep time and 10 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Bacon-Wrapped Scallops recipe make?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Bacon-Wrapped Scallops recipe?
This recipe is rated as Medium difficulty level, making it suitable for home cooks with some experience.
Can I make substitutions in this Bacon-Wrapped Scallops recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this bacon-wrapped scallops ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this bacon-wrapped scallops up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover bacon-wrapped scallops?
Store leftover bacon-wrapped scallops covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with bacon-wrapped scallops?
This bacon-wrapped scallops pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped scallops?
Yes, this bacon-wrapped scallops freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.