Scallop Carpaccio is a delicate and elegant dish that’s perfect for showcasing the natural sweetness and texture of fresh scallops. Here’s a recipe with ingredients and step-by-step instructions:
Ingredients:
- 8 large fresh sea scallops
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Microgreens (such as arugula, radish, or basil)
- Optional: 1 small shallot, finely minced
- Optional: 1 small red chilli, thinly sliced (for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Scallops:
- Ensure the scallops are very fresh. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Place the scallops in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This will firm them up and make them easier to slice thinly.
- Slice the Scallops:
- Using a sharp knife, slice the scallops horizontally into thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
- Arrange the Scallops:
- Arrange the scallop slices in a single layer on a chilled serving platter or individual plates. Overlapping them slightly can create a visually appealing presentation.
- Dress the Scallops:
- Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice evenly over the scallop slices.
- Next, drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the scallops.
- Season the scallops with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle the lemon zest over the top for a burst of citrus flavour.
- If using, scatter the finely minced shallot and thinly sliced red chilli over the scallops for additional texture and a hint of heat.
- Garnish with microgreens for colour and a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve the scallop carpaccio immediately while it’s fresh and chilled.
Tips:
- Freshness is Key: The quality of the scallops is crucial for this dish since it’s served raw. Make sure to purchase the freshest sea scallops possible from a reputable source.
- Serve Chilled: Keeping the scallops and the serving platter chilled ensures the dish stays fresh and safe to eat.
- Variations: You can experiment with different garnishes like capers, thinly sliced radishes, or even a touch of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives.
Enjoy your elegant and refreshing Scallop Carpaccio! This dish is perfect as an appetiser for a special meal or as a light, sophisticated course.