Introduction :
Embark on a culinary journey of elegance and flavor with Speck Wrapped Scallops, a delightful appetizer that marries the delicate sweetness of scallops with the savory richness of speck or prosciutto. Originating from Italian cuisine, this dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a perfect starter for any occasion, from intimate dinners to festive gatherings.The beauty of Speck Wrapped Scallops lies in its simplicity and sophistication. Tender scallops are lovingly enveloped in thin slices of speck or prosciutto, creating a delightful contrast between the succulent seafood and the savory cured meat. Baked to perfection, the scallops emerge from the oven with a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful center, enticing the senses with every bite.
Ingredients:
- Fresh scallops, patted dry
- Thinly sliced speck or prosciutto
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wrap each scallop with a slice of speck or prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the wrapped scallops on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the scallops and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the speck is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
- Serve the speck wrapped scallops hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional and Health Benefits:
- Scallops are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Speck or prosciutto adds flavor and richness to the dish.
- Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Variations to Explore:
- Substitute speck or prosciutto with bacon for a smokier flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops before baking for extra richness.
- Serve the scallops with a dipping sauce made from aioli, pesto, or balsamic glaze.
Conclusion:
Speck Wrapped Scallops offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with tender scallops enveloped in savory speck or prosciutto. This elegant appetizer is perfect for entertaining or as a special treat for yourself. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a dish that is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
- Fresh scallops are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use thawed frozen scallops if fresh ones are not available.
- Can I grill the SWS instead of baking them?
- Yes, grilling is another delicious option. Simply grill the wrapped scallops over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- What can I serve with speck wrapped scallops?
- These scallops pair well with a variety of side dishes such as salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
- Can I prepare the scallops ahead of time?
- Yes, you can wrap the scallops in speck ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Can I use a different type of seafood?
- Yes, you can use shrimp or chunks of firm fish such as halibut or monkfish instead of scallops.
Resources :
- Speck Wrapped Scallops Recipe – Food Network
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Scallops Recipe – Taste of Home
- Crispy Speck-Wrapped Scallops Recipe – Martha Stewart
- Speck-Wrapped Scallops with Watercress Salad Recipe – Epicurious
- Baked Speck-Wrapped Scallops Recipe – Simply Recipes
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PrintSpeck Wrapped Scallops
Indulge in a culinary symphony of flavors with Speck Wrapped Scallops, a delectable appetizer that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with the savory richness of speck or prosciutto. This elegant dish, rooted in Italian cuisine, offers a tantalizing fusion of textures and tastes, making it a perfect starter for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.
At the heart of Speck Wrapped Scallops lies the marriage of simplicity and sophistication. Each succulent scallop is lovingly wrapped in thin slices of speck or prosciutto, creating a harmonious interplay of flavors that dance across the palate. Baked to perfection, the scallops emerge from the oven with a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful center, captivating the senses with their irresistible aroma and presentation.
This appetizer not only delights the taste buds but also enchants the eyes, with its visually stunning appearance and artful presentation. Whether served as a show-stopping starter at a dinner party or as a delightful indulgence for a quiet evening at home, Speck Wrapped Scallops are sure to leave a lasting impression with their exquisite flavors and elegant charm.
In this culinary journey, we invite you to discover the art of crafting perfect Speck Wrapped Scallops, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the baking process. Join us as we explore expert tips, creative variations, and answers to frequently asked questions, allowing you to recreate this classic dish with confidence and flair.
Prepare to elevate your appetizer game and delight your guests with the irresistible flavors of Speck Wrapped Scallops. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, this exquisite dish promises to enchant and inspire, leaving you craving for more with each delightful bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- Fresh scallops, patted dry
- Thinly sliced speck or prosciutto
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wrap each scallop with a slice of speck or prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the wrapped scallops on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the scallops and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the speck is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
- Serve the speck wrapped scallops hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to use fresh scallops and pat them dry before wrapping to ensure crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the scallops while baking to prevent overcooking, as they can become tough.
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 speck wrapped scallops
- Calories: 200 calories per serving
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Speck Wrapped Scallops