Description

This Spicy Honey Butter Scallops recipe features succulent U-10 scallops broiled to perfection with a luscious blend of salsa macha, honey, and butter. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors is enhanced by fresh chives and zesty lemon, making this dish an elegant appetizer or light entrée perfect for seafood lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Butter Mixture

4 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
¼ cup salsa macha
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp soy sauce
Pinch of salt

Scallops

8 U-10 scallops (foot removed and patted dry)

Garnish and Serving

Chives (chopped, to taste, for topping)
1 lemon (juice and zest)
Crusty bread (for dipping)

Instructions

Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the unsalted butter, salsa macha, honey, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt until smooth and evenly combined.
Prep the Scallops: Remove the foot of each scallop and gently pat them dry to ensure proper searing and moisture removal for better texture.
Assemble in Shells: Using a piping bag, place a small dollop of the prepared butter mixture on the bottom of each scallop shell. Position the scallops on top, season with salt and pepper, then add another layer of the spicy honey butter over the scallops.
Broil the Scallops: Place the shells on the middle rack of the broiler and cook for 6-7 minutes on high. Then move the shells to the top rack and broil for an additional 1 minute to achieve a nicely browned and flavorful finish.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, top the scallops with chopped chives, sprinkle with more lemon zest, and serve with lemon slices on the side for squeezing. Accompany with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious buttery sauce.

Notes

Use U-10 scallops for a good size – they are about 10 scallops per pound, ideal for this preparation.
Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and piping.
If you don’t have scallop shells, you can broil on a baking sheet but place dollops of butter around the scallops to retain moisture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of salsa macha according to your spice preference.
Broiling times may vary depending on the broiler strength; watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Broiling
Cuisine: Fusion (Mexican-inspired)

Keywords: scallops, spicy scallops, honey butter scallops, salsa macha, broiled scallops, seafood appetizer, easy seafood recipe