Step into the world of exquisite flavors and culinary traditions with our Scallops Provençal recipe. This delightful dish is a beautiful fusion of the bounties of the sea and the vibrant flavors of the Provençal region in France. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of scallops, explore the rich culinary heritage of Provence, and share a sustainably conscious approach to enjoying this delectable seafood treat.
Scallops have a fascinating history that spans centuries. These bivalve mollusks were not only a prized food source for indigenous coastal communities but were also revered in ancient mythology. In Greek mythology, Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was often depicted riding a scallop shell. The shell’s iconic fan-like shape has made it a symbol of pilgrimage and travel, as evidenced by the scallop shell motifs along the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes.
Provence, a picturesque region in the south of France, is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. The cuisine of Provence is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold, aromatic flavors. Provençal dishes often feature olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a medley of vegetables. This culinary style captures the essence of the Mediterranean coastline and is a perfect match for succulent scallops.
Before embarking on your culinary journey, it’s important to consider the sustainability of your seafood choices. Overfishing and habitat destruction have posed significant challenges to scallop populations in various parts of the world. To enjoy your Scallops Provençal guilt-free, opt for scallops that are certified by reputable sustainability organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). These certifications ensure that the scallops are sourced responsibly, promoting the health of marine ecosystems.
Scallops Provençal Recipe
This is my take on the WW recipe that’s only 3 points per serving, and in only 18 minutes you can be dining on the classic French culinary Scallops Provençal fruit de mer (froo-ee duh mehr), or “fruits of the sea”.
3 Points® – Total Time: 18 min – Prep Time: 10 minutes – Cook Time: 8 minutes – Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops, wash and dried (about 16 scallops)
- ¼ tsp Table salt
- ¼ tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
- 1½ Tbsp Olive oil
- ¼ cup Shallots, chopped, minced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- ½ cup White wine
- 3 Tbsp Fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Season scallops with salt and pepper.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat; add oil. When oil shimmers, add scallops to pan, flat-side down; cook until just browned on bottom and you can see moisture appearing on top of scallops, about 2 minutes. Flip scallops and brown on other side, about 1 minute; reduce heat to medium.
- Add shallots and garlic to skillet; cook, stirring frequently, until shallots are lightly browned, about 2 minutes (be careful not to burn garlic). Add wine; stir and cook until liquid starts to reduce, about 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley; serve. Yields about 4 ounces scallops per serving, or 4 scallops per serving.
Scallops Provençal is a delightful testament to the harmonious marriage of exquisite seafood and the vibrant culinary heritage of Provence. By choosing sustainably sourced scallops, you not only indulge in a delectable meal but also contribute to the preservation of our precious marine ecosystems. So, don your apron, embrace the spirit of Provençal cooking, and savor each bite of this Mediterranean masterpiece. Bon appétit!
