Baked Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish, perfect for a special dinner or when you’re in the mood for something a bit different. The tender, juicy sea scallops are baked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese, and garnished with fresh basil. The combination of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, pasta, or a light salad.
Ingredients for Baked Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce
- 1 pound sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (for brightness)
Instructions for Baked Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
2. Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the Scallops
- Arrange the rinsed and dried scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Pour the spicy tomato sauce evenly over the scallops, making sure they are well-coated.
4. Bake the Scallops
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the scallops and sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are just cooked through and the sauce is bubbling. The scallops should be opaque and firm, but not overcooked.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle with the juice of 1 lemon. Garnish with the chopped fresh basil.
- Serve the scallops hot, paired with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn opaque and firm.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder dish.
- Tomato Sauce: For an even richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth while the sauce simmers.
Variations for Baked Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce
1. Herb-Crusted Scallops
- For a crunchy texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese over the top of the scallops before baking.
2. Low-Carb Version
- Serve the scallops over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal option that still delivers all the delicious flavors.
3. Add Vegetables
- Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the tomato sauce for extra flavor and texture. Stir them into the sauce before adding the scallops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
2. What can I serve with baked scallops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the spicy tomato sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, pour the sauce over the scallops and bake as directed.
A Flavorful and Elegant Seafood Dish
This Baked Scallops in Spicy Tomato Sauce is a perfect combination of tender scallops and a rich, spicy tomato sauce, topped with Parmesan and fresh basil. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s ideal for a special dinner or a cozy night in. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish!