Seaside Bacon Swirls

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Seaside Bacon Swirls are the perfect marriage of land and sea — fresh, juicy scallops wrapped in crispy bacon. This recipe is quick, impressive, and a surefire way to bring a touch of gourmet to your dinner table.

Ingredients for Seaside Bacon Swirls

Scallops are the star of the show, bringing a delicate, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of bacon. Choose large, fresh scallops for the best texture and taste. Bacon adds a savory, crispy element that wraps around the scallops, sealing in moisture while providing a delightful contrast. Olive oil helps to coat the scallops and bacon, ensuring they cook evenly and don't stick to the pan. A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper bring depth and seasoning that elevate the natural flavors. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use toothpicks to secure the bacon tightly, preventing it from unraveling during cooking.
  • If your bacon slices are particularly thick, consider partially cooking them first to ensure they crisp up without overcooking the scallops.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the olive oil mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These Seaside Bacon Swirls shine as an appetizer but can also be served as a main course. Pair them with a light, citrusy salad or serve alongside a creamy risotto to complement the savory flavors. A crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc would also enhance the dish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly pat them dry to remove excess moisture before using.
What if I don't have garlic powder?
You can substitute with finely minced fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.

Seaside Bacon Swirls Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it's hot enough to crisp up the bacon quickly without overcooking the scallops. Next, take a moment to pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely, caramelized surface. Now, wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. This is where the magic happens — the bacon not only adds flavor but creates a protective layer around the scallop.

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will act as both a marinade and a finishing glaze. Use a brush to apply the mixture over the wrapped scallops, making sure each one gets an even coat.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and place your scallop swirls on it, making sure they're not touching. Pop them in the preheated oven and let them bake for 12-15 minutes. You're looking for crispy bacon and tender scallops, so keep an eye on them. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick prep and cook time makes it perfect for busy evenings.
  • The combination of scallops and bacon is a crowd-pleaser.
  • A single pan recipe means minimal cleanup.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch in flavor.

Ingredients

1 lb large scallops
12 slices of bacon
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Brush the mixture over the wrapped scallops.
6. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!