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Scallop Tartare Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 70 reviews

A delicate and elegant Scallop Tartare recipe featuring fresh bay scallops gently mixed with crème fraîche, Meyer lemon zest and juice, finely chopped chives, and a touch of olive oil. Perfectly presented on scallop shells and optionally topped with luxurious caviar, this dish is a fresh, light appetizer that highlights the natural sweetness of scallops.

Ingredients

Scale

Scallop Tartare

  • 8 oz bay scallops (about 16 total)
  • 1 small Meyer lemon (zest + a tiny squeeze of juice)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp chives, finely chopped
  • 1½–2 tbsp crème fraîche
  • Olive oil, to taste
  • Caviar, to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Scallops: Quarter the bay scallops into bite-sized pieces to ensure a consistent texture and easier mixing.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, gently combine the scallops with the crème fraîche, Meyer lemon zest, a small squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and the finely chopped chives. Stir lightly to blend flavors without breaking up the scallops.
  3. Plate the Tartare: Arrange the scallop mixture on clean scallop shells. To stabilize the shells and enhance presentation, place them on a bed of coarse salt.
  4. Finish and Serve: Drizzle olive oil over the tartare, and if desired, add a small spoonful of caviar on top for a luxurious finishing touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of the dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh bay scallops for best flavor and texture; when quartering, ensure they are firm and not overly watery.
  • You can find bay scallops at seafood markets or specialty grocers; thaw frozen scallops gently in the refrigerator if needed.
  • Meyer lemons have a sweeter, milder flavor compared to regular lemons—if unavailable, use a standard lemon but reduce juice slightly to maintain balance.
  • Crème fraîche can be substituted with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture but slightly different tang.
  • Serving on scallop shells placed in a salt bed adds an elegant touch and prevents the shells from tipping over.
  • Caviar is optional but highly recommended for a special occasion or added richness.

Keywords: scallop tartare, seafood appetizer, raw scallops, crème fraîche, caviar, lemon scallops, elegant appetizer

Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/scallop-tartare-recipe/