There’s something undeniably luxurious about biting into a perfectly cooked, tender scallop wrapped in crispy bacon. This Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe has a special place in my heart, often gracing our holiday tables and celebrations. The savory combination of the rich, buttery scallops and the salty, smoky bacon creates an unforgettable flavor experience that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a festive appetizer for friends, these scallops come together effortlessly and are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
Bacon Wrapped Scallops are not just an indulgence; they are a delightful melding of flavors that everyone loves. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served for a variety of occasions—think romantic dinners, summer barbecues, or family gatherings. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick yet impressive appetizer.
“These bacon-wrapped scallops were a hit at our dinner party! They were gone in minutes and everyone was asking for the recipe.” – Sarah, a satisfied home cook.
How to make Bacon Wrapped Scallops
The cooking process explained
Creating Bacon Wrapped Scallops might sound daunting, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
- Prepare the scallops and bacon.
- Wrap each scallop with bacon and secure with a skewer.
- Season and grill the skewers until cooked perfectly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
- 10 oz (280g) scallops (approximately 12 pieces)
- 12 strips of bacon
- Cayenne pepper (for a little heat)
- Salt (to taste)
Optional substitutions: If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon for a leaner option or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Directions
Cooking method
- Begin by wrapping each scallop with a strip of bacon. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped and secure it with a metal skewer. Feel free to thread two scallops onto a single skewer for easy grilling.
- Sprinkle salt and a hint of cayenne pepper onto both surfaces of the wrapped scallops.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Once ready, place the skewers on the grill.
- Rotate the skewers frequently, grilling until the bacon is charred and crispy, taking about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve the bacon wrapped scallops immediately once they’re cooked to perfection.
How to serve Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your presentation, serve the Bacon Wrapped Scallops on a platter garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Pair them with a lemon aioli or a homemade dipping sauce for a delightful contrast in flavors. These scallops also make an excellent appetizer alongside a fresh salad or on a skewer with grilled vegetables.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Bacon Wrapped Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, be mindful to use low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops and bacon. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the cooked skewers. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- Use dry scallops instead of wet ones for better flavor and texture. Wet scallops are often treated with preservatives that can affect their cooking.
- Consider pre-cooking the bacon slightly to ensure it’s crispy by the time the scallops finish cooking.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends or marinades to create your signature flavor profile.
Variations
Creative twists
Switch things up by adding a slice of jalapeño or a dollop of cream cheese inside the scallop before wrapping it with bacon for an extra kick. Or, drizzle a balsamic glaze on top for a tangy complement. You could even swap the bacon for prosciutto for a different flavor experience altogether.
FAQs
Common questions
Q: How long does it take to prep and cook?
A: The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep and grilling time.
Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
A: Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before wrapping them in bacon for best results.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you’re adding sauces, ensure they do not contain dairy products.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops are an exquisite dish that combines simplicity with elegance, making them an ideal choice whether for a casual family dinner or an elaborate celebration. Enjoy!
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Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Luxurious and indulgent, Bacon Wrapped Scallops combine tender scallops with crispy bacon for a perfect appetizer.
Ingredients
- 10 oz (280g) scallops (approximately 12 pieces)
- 12 strips of bacon
- Cayenne pepper (for a little heat)
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Begin by wrapping each scallop with a strip of bacon. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped and secure it with a metal skewer.
- Sprinkle salt and a hint of cayenne pepper onto both surfaces of the wrapped scallops.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Once ready, place the skewers on the grill.
- Rotate the skewers frequently, grilling until the bacon is charred and crispy, taking about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve the bacon wrapped scallops immediately once they’re cooked to perfection.
Notes
For a leaner option, use turkey bacon. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American