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nown as a seafood delicacy, scallops are often highly regarded for their soft texture and taste. They are delectably tender and sweet whether pan seared, baked, or grilled and are found in restaurants around the globe. Scallops are bivalves, meaning they have two hinged shells. The muscle that opens and closes the shell is called the abductor muscle, and is the part we eat. The term “scallop” is actually applied to numerous clams or mollusks and come in many varieties, the most common being bay or sea scallops. Let’s dive more into scallops, the terms surrounding them, shopping for them, and how to prepare this succulent and sweet jewel of the sea.
BY BRACY DUTTON
SWEET ON SCALLOPS
As I mentioned, scallops typically fall under two distinct categories: bay or sea. Sea scallops are the larger of the two (often growing as big as two inches) and bay scallops are bite-sized (often the size of a dime). Sea scallops are caught and harvested yearround in deep cold sea water, whereas bay scallops, on the other hand, are caught in shallow bay waters. While they are usually a quarter of the size of sea scallops, they tend to be much sweeter in flavor, more tender, and succulent. Bay scallops are generally less expensive than sea scallops and are an excellent choice for the French classic – and perhaps the most famous baked scallop dish – “Coquilles Saint Jacques” … scallops baked au gratin, with creamy sauce and breadcrumbs forming the crust and oozing with cheese.
Scallop season has arrived, so now is the perfect time to enjoy these succulent treats from the sea. Not only are they delicious, they are also good for you! Widely considered as one of the healthiest foods out there, scallops are, according to webmd.com, “made up of 80% protein and sport a low fat content, [and they] are rich in vitamins and minerals” (such as zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12). Additionally, they also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol, regulate your heartbeat, support nervous system function, and may support memory, webmd.com continues. Furthermore, since they are such an excellent source of lean protein, scallops can help you feel full longer. 38
CIRCA Magazine
| April • May • June 2022
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