How to Prepare Sea Scallops

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By G. Marie
eHow Contributing Writer

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Sea scallops

Sea scallops are a light, mild seafood that you can prepare in a variety of ways and eat alone or in salads, pastas, stews and sauces. You also can combine them with other meats (wrapped in bacon, for example).
Though they're often served in high-calorie, high-fat creamy sauces or lots of butter, you can prepare sea scallops healthfully and enjoy them with nothing more than fresh lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper. They're also delicious battered and deep fried.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Sea scallops
Skewers
Large skillet
Charcoal or gas grill
Olive oil
Butter
Salt
Pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Tempura batter for deep-frying:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg
1 cup cold water

Sauteed Scallops

Step 1

In a skillet on medium heat, melt butter and add an equal amount of olive oil (just enough when combined to generously cover the bottom of the pan).
Step 2

Carefully place scallops in the pan and turn after one minute of cooking. Cook until the scallops are no longer translucent (about two minutes, maybe less).
Step 3

Remove from skillet and sprinkle with fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper and fresh parsley.

Poached Scallops

Step 1

Fill a large skillet with enough water to cover the scallops; add whole herbs if desired. Bring water to a simmer.
Step 2

Add scallops and simmer until tender (about three to five minutes). Remove and discard the herbs.
Step 3

Remove the scallops and serve with fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper and chopped parsley.
Step 4

If desired, reduce the liquid left over in the skillet by boiling it. Spoon this on top of the scallops.

Grilled Scallops

Step 1

Heat grill to medium heat and arrange grill rack 4 to 6 inches above the coals.
Step 2

Skewer scallops. Brush with olive oil and place on grill.
Step 3

Grill each side just a couple minutes. Carefully remove scallops from skewers and enjoy.

Deep-Fried Scallops With Tempura Batter

Step 1

Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
Step 2

In separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 cup cold water.
Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, beating with a fork. Batter will be lumpy.
Step 3

Make sure scallops or scallop pieces are dry enough to hold the batter.
Dip scallops into batter and immediately drop into the oil of a prepared deep fryer. Do not add so many scallops at once that they are crowded.
Step 4

Using tongs, turn each once and cook no longer than 2 minutes. Remove scallops from fryer and drain on paper towels before serving.