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Smoked Scallop Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Smoked Scallop Cheek

Pecten maximus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Smoked scallop cheeks are a delicacy known for their tender texture and rich flavor, often enjoyed in gourmet dishes. They are a good source of protein and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious seafood option.

Also known as:
Scallop CheeksScallop Adductor Muscle
Scientific NamePecten maximus
Region of OriginUnited Kingdom

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories90 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total22.0g
Protein
20g(91%)
Fats
1.5g(7%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

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 B1210 µg (417%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, smoked scallop cheeks 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.
Contains selenium, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Low in carbohydrates and fats, making them a suitable choice for low-calorie diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid smoked scallop cheeks as they can trigger severe allergic reactions.
!Overconsumption may lead to elevated cholesterol levels due to their cholesterol content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed lightly cooked or added to salads and pasta dishes. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose smoked scallop cheeks that are firm and have a pleasant smoky aroma. Avoid any that appear slimy or have an off smell.

How to Store

Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Myths vs Realities

MythSmoked scallop cheeks are unhealthy due to high cholesterol.
RealityWhile they do contain cholesterol, they are low in saturated fats and can be part of a balanced diet.
MythAll scallops are the same.
RealityDifferent species of scallops have varying flavors and textures; smoked scallop cheeks are particularly prized.
MythSmoked scallop cheeks can be eaten raw.
RealityThey should be cooked to ensure safety and enhance their flavor.

Healthy Recipes

Smoked Scallop Cheek Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring smoked scallop cheeks, mixed greens, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette that enhances the natural flavors.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 150g mixed salad greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, segmented
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, orange, and grapefruit segments.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
  3. 3. Top the salad with smoked scallop cheeks and drizzle with the citrus vinaigrette before serving.

Smoked Scallop Cheek Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl packed with smoked scallop cheeks, roasted vegetables, and a tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 100g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 150g cooked quinoa
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and roast the zucchini and bell pepper for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and smoked scallop cheeks.
  3. 3. Mix tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing, then drizzle over the bowl before serving.

Smoked Scallop Cheek Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with smoked scallop cheeks and topped with a fresh avocado salsa, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with smoked scallop cheeks and top with avocado salsa before serving.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Asparagus Risotto

A creamy risotto featuring smoked scallop cheeks and tender asparagus, creating a luxurious yet healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 150g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 200g Arborio rice
  • 500ml vegetable broth
  • 100g asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent, then add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
  2. 2. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring continuously until rice is creamy and cooked, about 18 minutes.
  3. 3. Fold in asparagus and smoked scallop cheeks, cooking for an additional 2 minutes, then serve with Parmesan cheese.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata with smoked scallop cheeks and fresh spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 150g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 6 eggs
  • 100g fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil, add spinach until wilted, then pour in the egg mixture and top with smoked scallop cheeks. Bake for 20 minutes until set.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Cauliflower Puree

A silky cauliflower puree served with smoked scallop cheeks, offering a sophisticated and healthy side dish.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam cauliflower until tender, then blend with vegetable broth, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. 2. In a skillet, lightly sear smoked scallop cheeks for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve the scallop cheeks over the cauliflower puree for a refined dish.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Sweet Potato Cakes

Crispy sweet potato cakes filled with smoked scallop cheeks, served with a tangy yogurt dip for a delightful appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon dill
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper, then fold in smoked scallop cheeks.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small cakes and pan-fry until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve with a dip made from Greek yogurt and dill.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Zucchini Noodles

A light and healthy dish featuring smoked scallop cheeks on a bed of zucchini noodles, drizzled with a lemon garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  2. 2. Add smoked scallop cheeks and lemon juice, cooking until heated through.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Smoked Scallop Cheek Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of smoked scallop cheeks, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 200g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 2 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked brown rice, smoked scallop cheeks, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Smoked Scallop Cheek and Avocado Toast

A trendy and nutritious avocado toast topped with smoked scallop cheeks, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 100g smoked scallop cheeks
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix mashed avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast, top with smoked scallop cheeks, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are smoked scallop cheeks?

Smoked scallop cheeks are the adductor muscles of scallops that have been cured and smoked, enhancing their flavor.

How should I cook smoked scallop cheeks?

They can be grilled, sautéed, or added to dishes like pasta and salads for a gourmet touch.

Are smoked scallop cheeks healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy seafood option.

Can I eat smoked scallop cheeks raw?

It is not recommended to eat smoked scallop cheeks raw; they should be cooked to ensure safety.

How do I store smoked scallop cheeks?

Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container and consume within a few days for best quality.

What dishes can I make with smoked scallop cheeks?

They pair well with pasta, risottos, and can be used in seafood salads or as a topping for bruschetta.

Are there any allergens in smoked scallop cheeks?

Yes, they contain shellfish, which is a common allergen.

What is the best way to serve smoked scallop cheeks?

Serve them as an appetizer with a squeeze of lemon or incorporate them into a seafood platter.