If you're looking for a low-calorie seafood option, look no further than 5 scallops (112 g) of raw sea scallops, which contain only 100 calories. These tasty mollusks are loaded with important nutrients and offer a host of health benefits. Read on to discover everything you need to know about raw sea scallops!

In addition to their low calorie count, raw sea scallops are an excellent source of protein, containing about 20 grams per serving. They're also high in vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, all of which have important health benefits.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, cooking raw sea scallops is easier than you might think. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can turn these tasty mollusks into a delicious and healthy meal in no time. Keep reading to learn more!

Nutritional information of Raw Sea Scallops

As mentioned, raw sea scallops are a great source of protein and contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. One serving of 5 scallops (112 g) contains approximately:

• 100 calories
• 20 grams of protein
• 0.5 grams of fat
• 2 grams of carbohydrates
• 26% of the daily value for vitamin B12
• 7% of the daily value for zinc
• 10% of the daily value for selenium

These nutritional facts make raw sea scallops an excellent choice for anyone looking for a lean, healthy source of protein.

Benefits of Raw Sea Scallops

Raw sea scallops offer a wide range of health benefits, including:

• Brain health: The high levels of vitamin B12 found in scallops can help protect the brain from age-related cognitive decline and improve mood.
• Immune system support: The zinc and selenium in scallops play important roles in supporting a healthy immune system.
• Weight management: With only 100 calories per serving, scallops can help you feel full and satisfied without adding excess calories to your diet.
• Heart health: The low fat content of scallops and their omega-3 fatty acids may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Overall, incorporating raw sea scallops into your diet can be a great way to boost your health and wellness.

How to cook Raw Sea Scallops

Cooking raw sea scallops is simple and straightforward. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and no longer translucent in the middle.
4. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Of course, there are countless variations on this recipe, so feel free to experiment and find the cooking method that works best for you!

Tips for buying Raw Sea Scallops

If you're looking to buy raw sea scallops, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Look for scallops that are firm and fresh-smelling, with a slightly sweet aroma.
• Avoid scallops that are slimy or have a strong fishy smell, as these may be past their prime.
• When possible, choose dry-packed scallops over those that have been soaked in a solution, as these tend to have a better texture and flavor.
• Finally, be mindful of the environmental impact of the seafood you choose, and opt for sustainably sourced scallops whenever possible.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you're getting the freshest, most flavorful scallops possible.

Difference between sea scallops and bay scallops

While both sea scallops and bay scallops are delicious and nutritious, there are a few key differences between the two:

• Size: Sea scallops are larger, typically measuring 2-3 inches in diameter, while bay scallops are smaller, measuring only 1-2 inches in diameter.
• Flavor: Bay scallops tend to have a sweeter, milder flavor than sea scallops, which are richer and meatier.
• Texture: Sea scallops have a firmer, denser texture than bay scallops, which tend to be more tender.

While both types of scallops can be used in a variety of dishes, it's important to choose the right type of scallop for your recipe to ensure the best results.

Raw Sea Scallops recipe ideas

There are countless ways to prepare raw sea scallops, from simple salads to complex entrees. Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire your next seafood feast:

• Seared scallops with bacon and apple puree
• Scallop ceviche with avocado and lime
• Scallop carpaccio with truffle oil and arugula
• Scallop and shrimp risotto

No matter what your culinary preferences may be, there's a raw sea scallop recipe out there for you.

Raw Sea Scallops storage and shelf life

Like all seafood, raw sea scallops should be handled carefully to ensure optimal freshness and safety. Here are some storage tips to keep in mind:

• Refrigerate scallops as soon as possible after purchasing, and use them within 1-2 days.
• If freezing scallops, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When thawing frozen scallops, place them in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy fresh, delicious raw sea scallops no matter when you choose to prepare them.

Possible side effects of consuming Raw Sea Scallops

While raw sea scallops are generally safe and healthy to eat, there are a few potential side effects to keep in mind:

• Foodborne illness: Like all raw seafood, scallops can carry harmful bacteria like salmonella or norovirus, which can cause food poisoning if not prepared properly.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to shellfish, including scallops. If you experience symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling after consuming scallops, seek medical attention immediately.
• Mercury exposure: Like many types of seafood, scallops can contain trace amounts of mercury, which can be harmful in large amounts. While the risks associated with mercury exposure from scallops are generally small, pregnant women and young children should consume scallops in moderation.

As long as you handle, prepare, and consume your scallops safely and in moderation, you can enjoy all the delicious health benefits raw sea scallops have to offer.

Sustainability of Raw Sea Scallops

As with all types of seafood, it's important to choose scallops that are sustainably sourced and harvested. Here are a few sustainability tips to keep in mind when selecting your scallops:

• Look for scallops that have been certified as sustainably harvested by a reputable organization like the Marine Stewardship Council or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council.
• Choose scallops that have been caught or farmed using environmentally responsible practices, like low-impact fishing or closed-system aquaculture.
• Avoid purchasing scallops that have been overfished or harvested using destructive methods like dredging, which can damage coastal ecosystems and destroy important marine habitats.

By making sustainable seafood choices, you can help protect our oceans and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy delicious raw sea scallops for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about Raw Sea Scallops

Here are a few common questions people have about raw sea scallops:

• Are raw sea scallops safe to eat? Raw sea scallops can be safe to eat as long as they've been handled and prepared properly to avoid foodborne illness.
• How long do raw sea scallops last in the fridge? Raw sea scallops should be used within 1-2 days of purchase if stored in the fridge.
• Can you eat raw sea scallops? Raw sea scallops can be eaten raw, but it's important to take steps to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, like using scallops that have been previously frozen or purchasing sushi-grade scallops from a reputable vendor.
• What's the best way to cook raw sea scallops? Raw sea scallops can be cooked in a variety of ways, but searing them in a hot skillet is a popular and easy method.

Hopefully these answers will help you feel more confident in your decision to add raw sea scallops to your diet!