Asiago Crusted Scallops

This recipe is so simple and one of my new favorite ways to eat scallops!

Ingredients (Serves about 3-4)

*12 fresh or frozen sea scallops, thawed

*1/2-3/4 cup asiago cheese, grated

*1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

*3 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted and chopped

*2-3 cloves garlic, crushed

*1 tsp. lemon juice

*Sea salt and pepper to taste

*3 Tbs. Olive Oil

*1 Tbs. Butter

*Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Directions

1.  Dry off scallops with a paper towel.  Toss with about 2 Tbs. olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and 2 cloves of crushed garlic.

2.  In a bowl, combine cheese, panko bread crumbs, chopped almonds, 1 clove of crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and 1/2 Tbs. melted butter. Stir to combine.

3.  Over high heat, heat a skillet and add 1/2 Tbs. butter and 1 Tbs. olive oil (using both gives the flavor of butter and the high heat capacity of olive oil).

4.  Add the scallops to the hot skillet and cook for 2 minutes on each side.

5.  Preheat the broiler to high.  Transfer the hot scallops into the bowl with the cheese-bread crumb mixture.  Toss to coat all warm scallops.  Arrange scallops in an 8-inch round pan and sprinkle the rest of the cheese-bread crumb mixture on top.

6.  Broil on high for about 1 minute or until golden brown, watching carefully to make sure scallops do not burn.  After one minute, remove from oven and cut the center of the thickest scallop to make sure the scallops are cooked (not translucent inside).  If they are not done, place scallops back in warm oven for a few minutes.

7.  Serve warm and with fresh lemon wedges!  Great accompaniments are orzo with sun-dried tomatoes and a spinach salad with balsamic dressing.  Mmm...

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