ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOPS
SCIENTIFIC NAME: PECTINIDAE
Atlantic sea scallops are a species of marine bivalve mollusks that live close together in clusters called “beds,” usually on sandy or gravel bottoms on the ocean floor in water depths ranging from 100 ft to 300 ft. Atlantic sea scallops are found in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. These mighty mollusks are great swimmers, they are free-swimming and use jet-like propulsion to navigate the waters while their 200 eyeballs, which line the inner rim of their shell, keep a watch out for food and predators.
As a scallop grows, the first few years of their up to 20-year lifespan, they grow rather quickly. They can reach here up to a reported 9 inches, but for the most part, the average size of a scallop’s shell is usually around 6 inches.
In terms of taste and texture profile, they are delightfully briny, buttery, and ocean sweet. The meat is tender, and excellent when seared appropriately.
CULINARY INSPIRATION
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Scallops
New England Scallop Casserole
Coconut Curry Scallops
Grilled Scallops with Lemon-Garlic Butter and White Wine
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Herbed Scallop Salad with Feta Cheese
Scallop Tacos
Linguine and Pan-Seared Scallops with Pesto
Coquilles St. Jaques
Scallop Po’ Boy
Pan-Seared Scallops with White Wine Lemon Caper Sauce
