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Fried Sea Scallops
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Fried Sea Scallops

Placopecten magellanicus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Fried sea scallops are a delicacy known for their sweet, tender meat and crispy exterior. They are often enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish, providing a rich source of protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Scallops (USA)Coquilles Saint-Jacques (France)
Scientific NamePlacopecten magellanicus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories200 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total43.0g
Protein
25g(58%)
Fats
10g(23%)
Carbohydrates
8g(19%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamin B121 µg (42%)
Vitamin E0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 50 IUFolate: 5 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Zinc1.5 mg (14%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, fried sea scallops provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in vitamin B12, they support nerve function and the production of red blood cells.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Fried sea scallops can be high in calories and unhealthy fats due to the frying process. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Fried sea scallops are best prepared by lightly breading and frying until golden brown. Serve with lemon or a dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose scallops that are firm, moist, and have a fresh ocean smell. Avoid those that are dry or have a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Store scallops in the coldest part of the refrigerator and use them within 1-2 days for best quality.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntimicrobialAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Culinary delight
High-protein meal option
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
FriedGrilledSautéed
Did you know?

"Scallops can swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells, propelling themselves through the water."

Myths vs Realities

MythScallops are always high in mercury.
RealityScallops are generally low in mercury compared to other seafood.
MythFried scallops are unhealthy and should be avoided.
RealityIn moderation, fried scallops can be part of a balanced diet.
MythAll scallops are the same.
RealityThere are different types of scallops, each with unique flavors and textures.

Healthy Recipes

Crispy Fried Sea Scallops with Quinoa Salad

Enjoy golden fried sea scallops served over a vibrant quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Instructions
  1. 1. Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper, then coat them in breadcrumbs.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then serve the scallops on top.

Spicy Fried Sea Scallops Tacos

These tacos feature crispy fried sea scallops topped with a spicy slaw and avocado, all wrapped in a soft corn tortilla.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup carrots, grated
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour for dredging
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix Greek yogurt and sriracha to create a spicy sauce.
  2. 2. Dredge scallops in flour, season with salt, and fry in a skillet until golden.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing scallops in tortillas, topping with slaw, avocado, and spicy sauce.

Fried Sea Scallops with Avocado Salsa

Crispy fried sea scallops paired with a refreshing avocado salsa make for a delightful and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. Season scallops with salt and pepper, then coat in breadcrumbs.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry scallops until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Combine avocado, tomatoes, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make salsa, then serve over scallops.

Garlic Butter Fried Sea Scallops with Asparagus

Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter fried sea scallops served alongside sautéed asparagus for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour for dredging
Instructions
  1. 1. Dredge scallops in flour and season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add scallops and cook until golden.
  3. 3. In the same skillet, add asparagus and sauté until tender, then serve with scallops.

Mediterranean Fried Sea Scallops with Couscous

These Mediterranean-inspired fried sea scallops are served over fluffy couscous with olives and feta for a delightful meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook couscous according to package instructions and mix with olives and feta.
  2. 2. Dredge scallops in breadcrumbs, season, and fry in olive oil until golden.
  3. 3. Serve scallops over couscous mixture.

Fried Sea Scallops with Mango Salsa

Crispy fried sea scallops are topped with a sweet and tangy mango salsa, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix mango, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create salsa.
  2. 2. Dredge scallops in breadcrumbs and fry in olive oil until golden brown.
  3. 3. Serve scallops topped with mango salsa.

Fried Sea Scallops with Spinach and Feta

Delicious fried sea scallops served on a bed of sautéed spinach and feta cheese for a nutritious and flavorful dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour for dredging
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Dredge scallops in flour and season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Fry scallops in olive oil until golden brown, then set aside.
  3. 3. Sauté spinach in the same pan, add feta, and serve scallops on top.

Fried Sea Scallops with Lemon Herb Rice

Crispy fried sea scallops served over a bed of lemon herb rice make for a refreshing and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 1 cup brown rice, cooked
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. Dredge scallops in breadcrumbs, season, and fry in olive oil until golden.
  2. 2. Mix cooked rice with lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve scallops over lemon herb rice.

Fried Sea Scallops with Zucchini Noodles

Crispy fried sea scallops served over spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a light garlic sauce for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Dredge scallops in breadcrumbs, season, and fry in olive oil until golden.
  2. 2. Sauté garlic in the same pan, add zucchini noodles, and cook until tender.
  3. 3. Serve scallops over zucchini noodles.

Fried Sea Scallops with Roasted Vegetables

Enjoy crispy fried sea scallops served alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. Dredge scallops in breadcrumbs, season, and fry until golden.
  3. 3. Serve scallops alongside roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are fried sea scallops healthy?

While they are a good source of protein and nutrients, frying adds calories and unhealthy fats.

How should I store leftover fried scallops?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze fried sea scallops?

Yes, but they may lose their texture. Freeze in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag.

What is the best way to reheat fried scallops?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

What are the nutritional benefits of scallops?

Scallops are high in protein, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly B12 and selenium.

How do I know if scallops are fresh?

Fresh scallops should smell like the ocean, be firm to the touch, and have a slightly translucent appearance.

What sauces pair well with fried scallops?

Tartar sauce, lemon butter sauce, or a spicy aioli complement fried scallops well.

Are scallops sustainable?

Sustainability varies by source; look for certifications like MSC or ASC when purchasing.