Diver Scallop Tartare Recipe - A Delightful Seafood Appetizer

Diver Scallop Tartare

If you're in search of a seafood appetizer that combines elegance, simplicity, and exquisite flavor, look no further than Diver Scallop Tartare. This dish is a true testament to the beauty of fresh, high-quality ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness and delicate texture of the scallops to shine through. Perfect for special occasions or an upscale dinner party, Diver Scallop Tartare is not only easy to prepare but also a delight to serve. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this gourmet appetizer, provide detailed ingredient insights, and offer an estimated cost to help you plan your next culinary adventure.

Why Choose Diver Scallops?

Diver scallops are widely regarded as one of the finest types of scallops available, known for their superior taste and texture. These scallops are harvested by hand from the ocean floor by experienced divers, ensuring that each one is of the highest quality. The careful harvesting process means that diver scallops are less likely to be damaged, resulting in plump, tender scallops that are perfect for raw preparations like tartare.

Diver scallops have a natural sweetness and a firm, yet delicate texture that makes them stand out in any dish. Because they are harvested individually, diver scallops are often more sustainable and environmentally friendly than scallops gathered using mechanical methods. Their premium quality does come with a higher price tag, but the flavor and texture are well worth the investment.

For top-quality diver scallops, consider purchasing from reputable sources like Global Seafoods, where you can find options like Jumbo Sea Scallops and Hokkaido Scallops.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Diver Scallop Tartare, you'll need a handful of high-quality ingredients that are simple yet impactful. Each component is carefully chosen to complement the scallops without overpowering their delicate flavor.

• 1/2 lb. fresh diver scallops, finely chopped – The quality of the scallops is paramount in this dish. Opt for fresh, high-grade diver scallops, which have a sweet, briny flavor that is perfect for raw preparations. Expect to spend about $20-$25 for 1/2 lb. of premium diver scallops.
• 1 tbsp. finely chopped shallot – Shallots add a subtle onion flavor with a hint of sweetness. Their mildness ensures that they complement the scallops without overwhelming them.
• 1 tbsp. finely chopped chives – Chives contribute a gentle onion-like flavor with a slight garlicky undertone, adding complexity to the tartare.
• 1 tbsp. finely chopped parsley – Fresh parsley adds brightness and a mild herbaceous note that balances the richness of the scallops.
• 1 tbsp. olive oil – Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to add a luxurious texture and a rich, fruity flavor to the tartare.
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the necessary acidity to balance the richness of the scallops, bringing out their natural sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is crucial. Use fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

The total estimated cost for the ingredients (excluding pantry staples like olive oil, salt, and pepper) is around $25-$30. The exact cost may vary depending on the quality of the scallops and the availability of fresh herbs.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Chop the Diver Scallops Start by finely chopping the diver scallops. Aim for uniformity in size, with pieces about the size of a pea. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the tartare, which is important for both presentation and the eating experience. Finely chopped scallops allow the flavors of the added ingredients to meld seamlessly with the natural sweetness of the scallops.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped scallops with the finely chopped shallot, chives, and parsley. The shallots and chives provide a subtle yet flavorful base, while the parsley adds a touch of freshness. This combination of ingredients creates a balanced flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the scallops without overpowering them.

Step 3: Dress the Tartare Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the scallop mixture. The olive oil adds a silky texture, while the lemon juice brightens the dish with a hint of acidity. The acidity is essential as it not only enhances the flavor but also slightly "cooks" the scallops, making them tender and flavorful. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right.

Step 4: Chill and Meld Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that each piece of scallop is evenly coated with the dressing and seasonings. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the tartare allows the flavors to meld and ensures that the dish is served at the optimal temperature, which is crucial for maintaining the delicate texture of the scallops.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish When ready to serve, remove the tartare from the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients. Spoon the tartare onto individual serving plates, shaping it into neat rounds if desired for a more refined presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional chopped herbs, such as chives or parsley, and add a slice of lemon on the side for a pop of color and an extra burst of acidity. For an added touch of luxury, consider topping the tartare with a few Smoked Weathervane Scallops for a smoky, rich flavor contrast.

Pairing Suggestions

Diver Scallop Tartare pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine or champagne. The light acidity and subtle fruit notes of these wines complement the delicate flavors of the scallops, enhancing the overall dining experience. Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or a dry Riesling are excellent choices. If you prefer something sparkling, a Brut Champagne or Prosecco adds a celebratory touch to the dish.

For a more robust pairing, consider serving the tartare as an appetizer before a seafood-centric main course, such as Alaskan Pink Scallops prepared with a light butter sauce. The continuity in flavors will create a cohesive and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen scallops instead of fresh?

• A: While fresh diver scallops are highly recommended for this dish due to their superior flavor and texture, you can use frozen scallops if fresh are unavailable. If you opt for frozen scallops, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help maintain the proper texture of the tartare. However, be aware that frozen scallops may lack the delicate sweetness of fresh ones.

Q: How do I know if my scallops are fresh?

• A: Fresh scallops should be firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet, oceanic smell. Avoid scallops that are slimy, discolored, or have a strong fishy odor, as these are signs that they may not be fresh. Fresh scallops should also have a natural creamy or pinkish hue. Purchasing from a reputable seafood provider, such as Global Seafoods, ensures you receive the freshest scallops available.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• A: Yes, Diver Scallop Tartare can be made up to 1 day in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for entertaining, as you can prepare the dish ahead of time and focus on other elements of your meal when your guests arrive. Just be sure to stir the tartare gently before serving to ensure the ingredients are well distributed.

Estimated Cost of the Dish

The cost of making Diver Scallop Tartare can vary depending on the quality and source of your ingredients. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Diver Scallops (1/2 lb.): $20 - $25
• Shallot, Chives, Parsley: $2 - $4
• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Seasonings: $1 - $2 (assuming you have these pantry staples on hand)

Total Estimated Cost: $23 - $31

This estimate is for a dish that serves 2-4 people, making it a relatively affordable yet luxurious appetizer. The cost may be higher if you opt for organic or specialty ingredients.

Conclusion

Diver Scallop Tartare is a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that's sure to impress your guests. With its delicate flavor and elegant presentation, it's perfect for any occasion, from an intimate dinner party to a festive celebration. This dish not only highlights the natural sweetness of fresh scallops but also demonstrates how minimal ingredients can create an extraordinary culinary experience.

By following this detailed recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to expand your repertoire, Diver Scallop Tartare is a must-try recipe that’s guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.

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Explore More Scallop Delicacies

For premium scallops and other seafood products, visit:

• Jumbo Sea Scallops
• Hokkaido Scallops
• Alaskan Pink Scallops
• Scallops
• Smoked Weathervane Scallops

Elevate your seafood dishes with the finest scallops available from Global Seafoods. Whether you're making tartare or another scallop-based dish, quality ingredients make all the difference.