Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange

Name: Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 pound dry sea scallops (about 16 medium); 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/8 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper; 1/3 cup plain bread crumbs; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon roughly chopped fresh thyme leaves; 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives; 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic; 1/4 cup grated pecorino romano cheese

By:

Alejandro

Published:

April 17, 2026

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Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange is a delightful dish that transports you to a warm Mediterranean evening, where the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs mingles with the bright zest of orange. Tender sea scallops, kissed by the golden glow of the oven, are finished with a crunchy topping that adds the perfect texture to each bite. This recipe balances gourmet flair with homey charm, making it ideal for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

I first discovered the magic of baked scallops during a seaside vacation, where the local cuisine featured vibrant dishes highlighting fresh seafood. I was initially intimidated by scallops, but this easy recipe opened my eyes to how simple it can be to create a stunning meal from scratch. If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without demanding too much time or effort, this one will win you over. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can bring the taste of fine dining into your kitchen with Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepping and cooking takes only about 45 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: Fresh herbs combined with zesty orange brighten the rich scallops’ taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown breadcrumb topping makes for a stunning presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for elegant dinners, festive occasions, or even a fancy weeknight treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound dry sea scallops: Look for fresh, dry scallops for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly.
5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This adds richness to the dish. You can substitute with melted butter for a different flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice: Fresh-squeezed juice brightens the dish. Store-bought can work but lacks the freshness.
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhance flavors with a pinch of salt. Sea salt provides a lovely texture.
1/8 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper: Freshly ground enhances the aroma. You can use pre-ground if that’s what you have on hand.
1/3 cup plain bread crumbs: Create a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender scallops. Use panko for extra crispiness.
1 teaspoon orange zest: Adds a pop of bright citrus flavor. Make sure to only zest the orange’s outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herb that adds color and a light taste.
1 teaspoon roughly chopped fresh thyme leaves: Earthy and aromatic, thyme pairs perfectly with seafood.
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives: Sweet and mild, chives bring a gentle onion flavor.
2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic: Adds depth and warmth to the dish. Fresh garlic is essential for the best taste.
1/4 cup grated pecorino romano cheese: This cheese adds a savory note. Parmesan can be used as a substitute.

How to Make Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange

Preheat the Oven: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400°F.
Prep the Scallops: If any scallops have a small, tough muscle on the side, remove it with your fingers or a paring knife. Gently pat the scallops dry with a paper towel.
Season the Scallops: In an 8-inch (2 quart) square casserole dish, add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Place scallops in a single layer, ensuring they are about 1/2-inch apart. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine plain bread crumbs, orange zest, parsley, thyme, chives, minced garlic, and grated pecorino romano cheese. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and mix using your fingertips or a fork until well-combined and the breadcrumbs are coated.
Bake the Scallops: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over each scallop, letting any excess fall into the dish. Place the baking dish in the oven on the middle rack and bake for 15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch while the breadcrumbs turn golden-brown. Serve immediately, savoring the fragrant, mouthwatering aroma.

Storing & Reheating

To store your baked scallops, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing the scallops (without the topping) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until warmed through. Keep in mind that the breadcrumb topping may lose its crunch on reheating, but you can refresh it under the broiler for a minute or two.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the scallops; they should still be tender and juicy when done.
If possible, let your scallops come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the dish before baking.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill for a unique twist on the toppings.
Feel free to use your favorite cheese variations – gouda or gruyere can add a wonderful depth.

The joy of cooking lies in experimentation. Baked Scallops with Fresh Herbs and Orange is no exception – feel free to make this dish your own! The freshness of the herbs, combined with the citrus notes, creates a delightful flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, you’re bound to impress. Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to savor your delicious creation!

Recipe FAQs

How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are ready when they are opaque and firm to the touch; this typically takes about 15 minutes at 400°F. Avoid overcooking them as they can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on their texture while baking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything (including the breadcrumb topping) a few hours in advance. Just store the scallops and topping separately in the fridge and combine them right before baking, keeping the freshness intact.

What can I serve with baked scallops?

Baked scallops pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a light pasta dish tossed in olive oil and seasonal vegetables. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside risotto or quinoa to soak up all that delicious flavor.

Are there any substitutes for sea scallops?

If you can’t find dry sea scallops, you could use large bay scallops. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since they are smaller and will cook faster. Adjust accordingly, checking for doneness to avoid overcooking.