Classic Coquilles St. Jacques

A French culinary gem, Coquilles St. Jacques is a luxurious dish featuring tender scallops in a creamy white wine sauce, topped with cheese and broiled to golden perfection. Traditionally served in scallop shells or ramekins, this classic seafood appetizer (or elegant entrée) is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a special occasion or date night dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Elegant & Impressive – Perfect for entertaining or romantic meals.
Decadent Flavor – Scallops shine in a rich, creamy wine-infused sauce.
Classic French Cuisine – A timeless recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Versatile – Serve as an appetizer or light main dish with crusty bread or salad.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and broil just before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scallops & Sauce:

• 1 lb sea scallops (patted dry)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 8 oz white mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup dry white wine (or low-sodium chicken broth)
• ½ cup seafood stock or chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional but traditional)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Optional Garnish:

• Extra chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet
• Small saucepan
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Ramekins or scallop shells
• Baking sheet
• Broiler

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear scallops for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
3. Transfer scallops to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
4. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add shallots and mushrooms. Cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and slightly golden.
5. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
6. Deglaze the pan with white wine and seafood stock. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until reduced by half.
7. Stir in cream, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2–3 more minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Return the scallops to the pan, gently stirring to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle in fresh parsley.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
9. Spoon the scallop mixture into individual ramekins or scallop shells.
10. In a small bowl, combine cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter.
11. Sprinkle the topping over each portion.

Step 5: Broil to Finish
12. Place the filled ramekins on a baking sheet.
13. Broil under high heat for 2–3 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
14. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips for the Best Coquilles St. Jacques
Use Fresh Scallops – Dry scallops sear better and hold flavor.
Don’t Overcook – Sear briefly and let them finish gently in the sauce.
Make Ahead – Assemble and refrigerate, then broil just before serving.
Use the Right Cheese – Gruyère offers a nutty melt without overpowering the scallops.
Shell Presentation – Cleaned scallop shells add a beautiful, authentic French touch.

Serving Suggestions
Crusty Baguette – To soak up every drop of the creamy sauce.
Simple Greens – A lightly dressed arugula salad balances the richness.
Butter-Steamed Asparagus – Delicate veggies match well with seafood.
Chilled Sparkling Water or Lemon Spritzer – Refreshing contrast to the cream sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container or cover ramekins tightly. Use within 2 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover and bake at 300°F for 10–12 minutes, then broil briefly to re-crisp the topping.
• Avoid microwave: It may overcook the scallops and make them rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
   Yes, but be sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before searing.
2. What can I substitute for wine?
   Use seafood or chicken broth with a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely.
4. Can I use bay scallops?
   Yes, but reduce cooking time as they’re smaller and more delicate.
5. What’s the origin of this dish?
   Coquilles St. Jacques is a classic French dish named after Saint James, the patron saint of scallops.

Final Thoughts

Classic Coquilles St. Jacques is an exquisite dish that turns any meal into a fine dining experience. With its creamy white wine sauce, perfectly tender scallops, and irresistible golden topping, it’s a celebration of French flavor and elegance. Whether served as a luxurious appetizer or a light main course, this dish is sure to impress.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 480mg

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