How To Make Bacon Wrapped Scallops: The Ultimate Guide!

Indulge in the exquisite culinary masterpiece of bacon-wrapped scallops. These delectable morsels combine the savory richness of bacon with the tender, succulent texture of scallops, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Master the art of preparing this culinary gem with our comprehensive guide on how to bacon wrapped scallops.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops, shucked and cleaned
• 12 slices bacon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Toothpicks or skewers
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops

Rinse the scallops thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.

2. Wrap the Scallops

Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around a scallop. Secure the bacon with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat this process with the remaining scallops and bacon slices.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. Line the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the scallops from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

5. Place the Scallops on the Baking Sheet

Arrange the bacon-wrapped scallops on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between them to ensure even cooking.

6. Bake the Scallops

Bake the scallops for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through. The internal temperature of the scallops should reach 145°F (63°C).

7. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the bacon-wrapped scallops from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or garnish.

Perfecting Your Technique

• Choose Large Scallops: Large scallops will hold more bacon and offer a more substantial bite.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the scallops with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavors.
• Cook to Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the scallops are cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooking will make them rubbery.
• Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon-wrapped scallops until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. This will add texture and flavor to the dish.

Dipping Sauces and Garnishes

Enhance the flavors of your bacon-wrapped scallops with a variety of dipping sauces and garnishes:

• Citrus Butter Sauce: Combine melted butter with lemon juice, orange zest, and fresh herbs.
• Garlic Aioli: Mix mayonnaise with garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
• Fresh Lemon Slices: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops for a bright and acidic kick.
• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the scallops for a fresh and herbaceous garnish.

Key Points: A Culinary Masterpiece

Mastering the art of bacon-wrapped scallops is a culinary achievement that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can create this delectable dish that combines the best of both worlds – the savory richness of bacon and the tender succulence of scallops.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them completely before wrapping them with bacon.

2. How long can I store bacon-wrapped scallops?

Cooked bacon-wrapped scallops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I grill bacon-wrapped scallops?

Yes, you can grill bacon-wrapped scallops. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the scallops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.

4. What is the best way to serve bacon-wrapped scallops?

Bacon-wrapped scallops can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces and garnishes.

5. Can I make bacon-wrapped scallops ahead of time?

Yes, you can wrap the scallops with bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.