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Scallops al Ajillo
Gambas al ajillo, or shrimp with garlic, is a popular Spanish tapa. For a new take on the classic, we swapped sweet, buttery sea scallops for the shrimp and created a portion generous enough to be served as a light main course. Look for U15 sea scallops—the sizing indicates there are fewer than 15 scallops per pound. Slightly larger or smaller ones will work, too. Just as importantly, seek out “dry” sea scallops, ones that have not been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate. If purchasing frozen, check the ingredients label; at the seafood counter, make sure the scallops are not sitting in a pool of liquid, or ask. Another tell is color: dry scallops have a pale coral hue, whereas treated scallops are stark white. Serve with a simple salad of bitter greens to round out the meal.
4
Servings
Tip
Don’t forget to pat the scallops dry before salting them, as well as just before placing them in the skillet. Wicking away excess moisture ensures nice, quick caramelization in the pan. (Keeping the scallops on a paper towel–lined plate while they wait to be cooked helps, too.) Don’t attempt to move the scallops immediately after placing them in the skillet. They will stick at first but then release after they’ve formed a bottom crust.
25 minutes
Ingredients
-
1-1¼
pounds dry sea scallops (see headnote), side tendons removed
-
Kosher salt
Directions
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01Pat the scallops dry with paper towels, then place them on a paper towel–lined plate. Season them all over with salt; set aside. In a 10-inch skillet, combine the oil and garlic. Set the pan over medium-high and cook, stirring often, until starting to brown at the edges, about 2 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and, using a slotted spoon, transfer the garlic to a small bowl; set the garlic aside.
Reviews
January 1, 2026
impressive for guests and simple to make
This recipe, with the smell of garlic, the look of the smoky paprika mixing with the parsley is a beautiful presentation. The taste is as good as it looks.
November 20, 2025
Lisa L
Loved it! Used an Arbol Chili (minus most seeds) . Had really large fresh dry New England Scallops. Using evoo v butter was a gastronomical relief. This pushed the butter scallops off the page! Bueno!.
January 2, 2025
Easy, excellent scallop preparation
The smoked paprika plays nicely with the tangy vinegar and sweetness from the scallops. Definitely in rotation for scallop recipes now.
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Enjoyed this recipe with some scallops I found in my freezer. I didn't have the sherry vinegar so I used part cooking sherry wine and part balsamic vinegar.