Scallops with crispy bacon on toasted bread tips

Introduction

Get ready to embark on a Crispy Bacon culinary journey that will tantalize your taste French Scallops buds and impress your dinner guests. This recipe for French scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, served alongside savory toast points, is the perfect blend of land and sea. You’ll discover how to transform simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer or main course that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

As you prepare this dish, you’ll learn the art of perfectly searing scallops, crisping bacon to golden perfection, and creating complementary toast points that elevate the entire experience. The combination of tender, sweet scallops enveloped in smoky Crispy Bacon creates a harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.

The key to this recipe’s success lies in selecting high quality ingredients. When choosing scallops, opt for fresh, dry packed sea scallops if possible. These haven’t been treated with preservatives and will give you the best flavor and texture. For the Crispy Bacon, a thick cut variety will provide the ideal balance of crispiness and chewiness to complement the delicate scallops.

As you cook, you’ll discover the importance of timing and temperature control. Properly searing the scallops ensures a caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender, succulent interior. The bacon must be par cooked to ensure it crisps up beautifully without overcooking the scallops.

The addition of French toast points adds a delightful textural contrast and serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful juices. You’ll learn how to create perfectly golden, crisp toast that complements the richness of the bacon wrapped scallops.

Throughout this recipe, you’ll gain insights into techniques like pan searing, broiling, and even grilling options for your Crispy Bacon wrapped scallops. You’ll also discover tips for creating a harmonious plate presentation that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, hosting a sophisticated cocktail party, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe for French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Crispy Bacon wrapped scallops!

Recipe Details

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: 16 bacon wrapped scallops and 8 toast points

Ingredients

For this exquisite dish of French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast, you’ll need to gather the following high quality ingredients :

16 large sea scallops (about 1 lb or 450g)

Look for “dry” scallops that haven’t been treated with preservatives. These will give you the best flavor and searing results. If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely in the refrigerator before use.

8 slices thick cut bacon

Choose a high quality bacon with a good balance of fat and meat. Applewood or hickory-smoked varieties add an extra layer of flavor.

4 slices artisanal bread (for toast points)

Opt for a rustic sourdough or French baguette for the best texture and flavor.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Use high quality butter for the best flavor. European style butter with higher fat content works wonderfully.

1 tablespoon olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but any good quality olive oil will work.

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Fresh herbs make a big difference. If you can’t find thyme, rosemary or tarragon can be good substitutes.

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Look for pure garlic powder without added salt or preservatives.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Sea salt or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper will give you the best flavor.

Wooden toothpicks or small skewers for securing the bacon

Soak these in water for about 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh lemon adds a bright, acidic note that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

When shopping for scallops, look for ones that are firm, with a slightly sweet smell and a pearly white color. Avoid scallops that appear slimy or have an strong fishy odor. If you can’t find fresh scallops, high quality frozen scallops can be a good alternative. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

For the bacon, thick cut slices work best as they hold up well during cooking and provide a satisfying texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try using prosciutto for a more delicate wrap.

The bread for your toast points should be sturdy enough to hold up to the juices from the scallops and Crispy Bacon. A day old loaf can actually work better for this, as it will crisp up nicely without becoming too dry.

Remember, the quality of your ingredients will directly impact the final dish, so choose the best you can afford. With these carefully selected components, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal of French scallops wrapped in Crispy Bacon with savory toast points.

Step by Step French Scallops Embraced by Bacon on Artisanal Toast”

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when you need it.
Start by preparing the bacon. Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, until the bacon is partially cooked but still pliable. This par-cooking will ensure crispy bacon without overcooking the scallops.
remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
While the bacon is cooking, prepare your scallops. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Remove the small side muscle if it’s still attached. Season the scallops lightly with salt and pepper.
Cut each slice of par cooked bacon in half crosswise. You should now have 16 pieces of bacon, one for each scallop.
Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon, securing it with a soaked wooden toothpick or small skewer. The bacon should be snug but not too tight, as it will shrink further during cooking.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the thyme leaves and garlic powder. This compound butter will add extra flavor to your toast points.
Cut each slice of bread diagonally to create two triangles. Spread the herb butter mixture on one side of each triangle.
Heat a skillet in the oven over medium heat. Add olive oil but not too much and swirl to coat the pan all over.
Once the pan is hot, add the bacon-wrapped scallops. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bacon is crispy and the scallops have a golden-brown crust.
Transfer the skillet with the scallops to the preheated oven. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
While the scallops are in the oven, prepare your toast points. Heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Place the buttered bread triangles, butter side down, in the skillet. Toast for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip and toast the other side briefly.
Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven carefully (remember, the handle will be hot!). Let them rest for a minute or two.
Arrange your toast points on serving plates. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on top or alongside the toast.
sprinkled with sprigs of thyme, preferably fresh, and decorated with small pieces of lemon on the side.

Remember :

the key to perfectly cooked scallops is not to overcook them. They should be slightly firm to the touch but still have a bit of give. Overcooked scallops can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them during the cooking process.

For a chef’s touch, you could deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or vermouth after removing the scallops. Reduce the liquid slightly and drizzle this flavorful sauce over the scallops before serving.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try grilling these bacon-wrapped scallops. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and grill the scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque.

With these steps, you’ll create a dish of French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points that’s worthy of any fine dining establishment. The combination of tender scallops, crispy bacon, and buttery toast is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your culinary cravings.

Useful Tips for Success

To ensure your French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points turn out perfectly every time, here are some useful and practical tips:

Selection of scallops: Always “dry” scallops preferably not “wet”.. Dry scallops haven’t been treated with phosphates and will sear much better, giving you that coveted golden-brown crust.
Bacon Thickness: Choose bacon that’s thick enough to wrap around the scallops without falling apart, but not so thick that it overwhelms the delicate flavor of the seafood.
Pat Dry: Before wrapping the scallops in bacon, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, allowing for better bacon adhesion and a superior sear.
Toothpick Technique: When securing the bacon with toothpicks, try to keep them flush with the scallop’s surface. This will make it easier to sear all sides evenly.
Pan Temperature: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the scallops. A properly heated pan will give you that perfect sear and prevent the scallops from sticking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will lower its temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing.
Resist the Urge to Move: Once you place the scallops in the pan, resist the urge to move them around. Let them develop a nice crust before flipping.
Use a Timer: Scallops cook quickly, so use a timer to ensure you don’t overcook them. Overcooked scallops are rubbery and lose their flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the scallops to rest for a minute or two after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute into our other ingredients, ensuring maximum flavor.
Toast Point Perfection: For crispy toast points, make sure your bread is evenly sliced and your pan is at the right temperature. Too hot, and the bread will burn; too cool, and it won’t develop that perfect golden color.
Compound Butter Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices in your compound butter for the toast points. Garlic, parsley, or even a touch of lemon zest can add interesting flavor dimensions.
Wine Pairing: Consider serving your French scallops wrapped in bacon with a crisp white wine like Chablis or Sancerre. The acidity will cut through the richness of the bacon and complement the sweetness of the scallops.
Garnish Wisely: A simple garnish of fresh herbs or a lemon wedge can elevate the presentation of your dish. Remember, we eat with our eyes first!
Temperature Control: If you’re serving these as an appetizer at a party, consider keeping them warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) for a short time. don’t leave them too long, as they can continue cooking and become overcooked.
Sauce Options: While delicious on their own, these bacon-wrapped scallops can be elevated further with a complementary sauce. A light lemon butter sauce or a tangy remoulade can add an extra layer of flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality dish of French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points. Remember, cooking is as much about technique as it is about ingredients, so don’t be afraid to practice and perfect your skills. With each attempt, you’ll get closer to mastering this elegant and delicious dish.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

When it comes to presenting your French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points, remember that we eat with our eyes first. A beautifully presented dish can make the overall dining experience feel refined . Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine:

Circular Arrangement: Place the toast points in a circular pattern on the plate, then arrange the bacon-wrapped scallops on top, slightly overlapping each other. This creates a visually appealing, wheel-like presentation.
Stacked Presentation: Stack two or three bacon-wrapped scallops on each toast point for a more dramatic, height-focused presentation.
Deconstructed Approach: Arrange the scallops, crispy bacon pieces, and toast points separately on the plate for a modern, deconstructed look.
Color Contrast: Use a white plate to make the golden-brown colors of the scallops and toast pop. Alternatively, a black plate can create a striking contrast.
Garnish Wisely: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) over the dish for a pop of color. A light dusting of paprika can also add visual interest.
Sauce Artistry: If you’re serving with a sauce, consider drizzling it on the plate in an artistic pattern before placing the scallops and toast.
Lemon Wedges: Include a small lemon wedge on each plate, not just for flavor but also for a bright visual accent.

Bacon Hugged French Scallops with Gourmet Toast Accompaniment

As for accompaniments, consider these options to complement your French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast:

Wine Pairing: A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this dish. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir can work well too.
Cocktail Option: A classic martini or a gin and tonic can be a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the bacon-wrapped scallops.
Non-Alcoholic Beverage: A sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate between bites.
Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich scallops and bacon.
Vegetable Accompaniment: Consider serving with grilled or roasted asparagus spears for a touch of green on the plate.
Starch Option: If serving as a main course, a small portion of risotto or pilaf can round out the meal.
Dessert Pairing: Follow this rich appetizer with a light, fruit-based dessert like a lemon sorbet or a mixed berry compote.

Remember, the key to a successful presentation is balance – both in flavors and visuals. Don’t overcrowd the plate, and let the star of the dish – your beautifully prepared French scallops wrapped in bacon with savory toast points – shine.

Nutritional Information

For one serving (4 bacon-wrapped scallops with 2 toast points):

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Fat: 20-25g
Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Protein: 25-30g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe in box ?

Indulge in the luxurious combination of French scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, perfectly complemented by savory toast points. This dish is a testament to the magic that happens when land meets sea on your plate. The sweet, tender scallops are embraced by salty, smoky bacon, creating a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.

The addition of buttery, herb-infused toast points adds a delightful crunch and serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up every.

Delicious Pot Roast Gyros Recipe inbox