National Baked Scallops Day 🐚🧈🍋 — Golden, Buttery & Elegant Seafood Recipe
National Baked Scallops Day is celebrated on March 12th every year. This special day is dedicated to one of the most delicious and popular seafood dishes - baked scallops.
Scallops are a type of mollusk that are highly prized for their delicate flavor and tender texture. They are a popular ingredient in many seafood dishes and can be prepared in a variety of ways. However, one of the most delicious ways to enjoy scallops is by baking them.
Baked scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that is easy to prepare and always impresses. The dish typically consists of fresh scallops that are baked with a variety of toppings, such as breadcrumbs, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a delicious and savory seafood dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Baked scallops have been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. In fact, scallops have been a popular food source for humans since prehistoric times. Evidence of scallop consumption has been found in archaeological sites dating back to the Neolithic era.
Today, baked scallops are enjoyed in many different cultures and cuisines. In Japan, scallops are often served grilled or pan-fried, while in France, they are often used in soups and stews. In the United States, baked scallops are a popular seafood dish that can be found on many restaurant menus.
To celebrate National Baked Scallops Day, many restaurants and seafood markets offer special deals and promotions on baked scallops. Some restaurants may even feature baked scallops as a special of the day or offer them as part of a prix fixe menu.
If you want to celebrate National Baked Scallops Day at home, there are plenty of delicious recipes available online. Whether you prefer your scallops with a breadcrumb topping or a creamy sauce, there is a recipe out there for you.
March 12 - National Baked Scallops Day | Shellfish | Crustaceans
In addition to being delicious, scallops are also a healthy food choice. They are low in calories and fat, high in protein, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. So, if you're looking for a healthy and delicious seafood dish to celebrate National Baked Scallops Day, look no further than baked scallops.
In conclusion, National Baked Scallops Day is a day to celebrate one of the most delicious seafood dishes in the world. Whether you enjoy them with a breadcrumb topping or a creamy sauce, baked scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that always impresses. So, why not celebrate this special day by enjoying a plate of delicious baked scallops with family and friends?
National Baked Scallops Day 🐚🧈🍋 — Golden, Buttery & Elegant Seafood Recipe
An easy, restaurant-worthy bake: tender sea scallops under a garlicky butter–lemon sauce with a crisp Parmesan crumb.
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 12–15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Crispy Baked Scallops (Lemon–Garlic Butter & Parmesan Crumb)
Ingredients
- 1½ lb large sea scallops (about 20) — side muscle removed
- 2 Tbsp dry white wine or seafood stock
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest + 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan
- 2 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Instructions
- Prep oven: Heat to 425°F (220°C). Lightly butter a 2-qt gratin or 9×13-inch dish.
- Dry & season: Pat scallops very dry with paper towels (key for browning). Season all over with salt & pepper; arrange in a single layer in the dish. Sprinkle wine/stock over.
- Make topping: In a bowl, mix butter, oil, garlic, lemon zest/juice, red pepper. Stir in panko, Parmesan, and parsley until evenly moistened.
- Top & bake: Spoon crumb mixture over scallops. Bake 12–15 minutes until scallops are just opaque and springy (internal temp ~125–130°F/52–54°C; they’ll carryover to ~135°F).
- Finish: Broil 1–2 minutes if you want extra color. Rest 2 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges.
Serve with: Buttered crumbs, a big salad, crusty bread, or buttered pasta. Spoon the pan juices over everything.
Pro Tips
- Dry scallops > wet scallops: Choose “dry-packed” (no phosphates) for best sear and less moisture.
- Single layer: Overcrowding steams; a single layer ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overbake: Pull at 125–130°F; they finish as they rest.
Variation – Herb Butter Only: Skip crumbs. Dot scallops with 4 Tbsp soft butter mixed with 2 Tbsp herbs + garlic & zest; bake 10–12 min.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Prep ahead: Mix crumb topping up to 24h; keep chilled. Pat scallops dry right before baking.
- Leftovers: Chill promptly; reheat gently at 275°F (135°C) 8–10 min until just warm to avoid toughness.
Allergy / Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use GF panko or crushed GF crackers.
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil only; omit Parmesan or use a DF hard-style alternative.
Pairing Ideas
Crisp whites (Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis) or a citrusy spritz; sides of garlicky green beans or lemony asparagus.





