A recipe for scallops wrapped in bacon and seasoned with smoked paprika, suitable for smoking or baking to achieve a deep, smoky flavor.
Author:Hana Winslow
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:40 min
Total Time:55 min
Yield:12 scallops
Category:Appetizer
Method:Smoking or Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
12 thin slices of bacon
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
If using a smoker, preheat it to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. If using an oven, preheat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Gently pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon crisp.
In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Lightly brush the scallops with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the scallops.
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around the center of each seasoned scallop. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
Place the wrapped scallops directly on the smoker grates or on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Smoke the scallops for 30 to 40 minutes, or bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the internal temperature of the scallops reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use dry-packed scallops for the best texture; avoid wet-packed scallops.
For grilling, use indirect heat to prevent flare-ups and burning the bacon before the scallops cook through.
Serve with a light dipping sauce, such as a simple lemon aioli.