Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe Is a 4-Ingredient Surf + Turf Delight That Wows
When you're looking to wow without the work — whether for Father's Day, a birthday or just an extra-special dinner at home — you can't beat bacon wrapped scallops. This dish uses just 4 ingredients, scallops, bacon, seasoning and butter, and cooks in as little as 6 minutes on the grill. The flavors are sweet, rich and smoky, making it a surf and turf dish that really impresses. Keep reading for insights on grilling bacon wrapped scallops to delicious perfection.
Why bacon wrapped scallops are the perfect main
Bacon and scallops are a winning combo as the naturally briny, sweet shellfish perfectly contrasts the salty, smoky meat. Cooking each wrapped scallop on the grill adds a layer of caramelized flavor. Plus, when cooked properly, the scallop flesh becomes tender while the bacon creates a crispy exterior. This blend of flavors and textures work well served with a range of sides, from fluffy orzo to grilled vegetables.
The best type of scallops for this dish
When shopping for this shellfish, you’ll find two main kinds: bay scallops and sea scallops. Bay scallops are smaller and ideal for satuéeing and broiling, while sea scallops are larger and can withstand grilling and searing. Your best bet is buying sea scallops for this dish as you’ll get a nice browned crust and a thick, juicy interior once cooked.
Related: Shopping for Salmon? A Salmon Fisherman Shares 5 Tips for Getting the Best Buy
Chef’s secret to tender bacon wrapped scallops
To ensure both proteins finish cooking at the same time, Jessica Gavin, culinary scientist and cookbook author, suggests giving the bacon a head start. Her advice: Cook the bacon, especially thick-cut varieties, on their own “until both sides begin to brown but are not crisp.” When the bacon is cooled, each slice can be wrapped around a scallop and placed on a skewer. This step helps you nail bacon wrapped scallops that are browned and evenly cooked throughout.
How to make bacon wrapped scallops
You can’t go wrong with this Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe from McCormick. The dish uses their roasted garlic herb seasoning to add a pungent and earthy kick to melted butter. But, it’s fine to use another seasoning blend such as a lemon-pepper or Cajun variety to customize the flavor. These scallops spend a quick 6 to 8 minutes on the grill, yet they’re packed with smoky and savory goodness. So, include this dinner delight in your menu for Father's Day or any other special occasion! (Read our guides on how to grill fish and the best internal temp for fish to enjoy moist fillets.)
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Ingredients:
1 lb. large sea scallops (about 12)
12 slices thick-cut bacon
2 Tbs. butter, melted
1 Tbs. your favorite seasoning blend
Directions:
Yield: 4 servings
In small, stir together butter and seasoning. Set aside.
Arrange bacon slices in single layer on bacon grilling rack or shallow disposable foil pan. Grill over medium-high heat 3 to 5 minutes or until bacon is halfway cooked. Remove bacon from grill; cool slightly.
Wrap 1 piece of bacon around each scallop. Thread onto skewers. Brush scallops with butter mixture.
Grill skewers over medium heat 6 to 8 minutes or until scallops are opaque and bacon is crispy, turning occasionally and brushing with any remaining butter mixture. Serve.
Bonus: This dish pairs well with a white wine like Whitehaven New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which boasts bright and crisp flavors and aromas.
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