- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- BakingCookingFood
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every March 12
- Holiday emoji:
- 🐚
National Baked Scallops Day arrives every March 12, inviting seafood lovers to indulge in the tender, flavorful delight of perfectly baked scallops. Whether you prefer them simply seasoned with butter and herbs or nestled in a rich gratin, this day is a delicious excuse to enjoy these ocean gems. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare a gourmet meal to celebrate this exquisite seafood.
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Expected National Baked Scallops Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that seafood restaurants and grocery stores often roll out special deals for National Baked Scallops Day. Look for gourmet markets like Whole Foods Market and Wegmans to feature discounts on fresh or frozen scallops, making it easier to prepare them at home. Casual dining chains such as Red Lobster and Outback Steakhouse might offer limited-time baked scallop appetizers or entrees. Specialty seafood purveyors like Fulton Fish Market and Vital Choice Seafood could provide online promotions for high-quality scallops delivered to your door. Even cookware brands like Le Creuset or Staub might highlight bakeware perfect for achieving that golden crust. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as March 12 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Baked Scallops Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalBakedScallopsDay. Share mouth-watering photos or short videos of your baked scallop creations, from prep to plate.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalBakedScallopsDay. Film quick, engaging tutorials on baking scallops, showcasing different recipes or seasoning techniques.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalBakedScallopsDay. Share your favorite baked scallop recipes, tips, and photos with our community.
National Baked Scallops Day Hero
Julia Child
History of National Baked Scallops Day
Few things can compare to the sweet, rich taste of scallops. It’s easily one of America’s favorite seafood dishes today. But you’ll be surprised to know that this wasn’t always the case.
In the 17th century, people in America didn’t like the flavor of scallop meat. Its oddly sweet taste was unappealing to the general palate back then. Fishing communities in the Northern Atlantic preferred oysters, lobster, and clams over scallops. Although people harvested wild Atlantic scallops for food, their shells were far more appealing, not the meat.
Tastes evolved with time, and scallops began receiving more appreciation in the U.S. by the 19th century. The earliest written recipe for scallops was published in “Miss Beecher’s Domestic Receipt Book” in 1846. The recipe called for lightly stewing or sauteing scallops.
In the decades that followed, scallop recipes and dishes were everywhere. Recipe experimentation called for frying, stuffing, pickling, and steaming. However, the versatile, easy-to-cook scallop lent itself well to most cooking methods. By the 1930s, scallops were an inseparable part of the U.S. diet. Expectedly, they were a favorite of the people in coastal cities and towns. Delicious fried scallops at seaside shacks became regular fare.
Scallops soon began featuring in menus of French restaurants by the mid-20th century. Around this time, the Coquille St. Jacques found a massive fan following in fine dining restaurants across America. The dish combines scallops in its shell with butter, shallots, herbs, cream, and cheese.
A fine-dining seafood restaurant without scallops seems almost inconceivable today. Every establishment has its own take — provencal, pan-seared, or even ceviche. But baking scallops are an excellent way to elevate this shellfish at home. So if you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner with none of the hassles, baked scallops are the way to go.
National Baked Scallops Day timeline
America prefers lobster, clams, and oysters to the unusual taste of scallops.
Things start to change when “Miss Beecher’s Domestic Receipt Book” mentions a recipe for lightly stewed and sauteed scallops.
The delicious scallop becomes a staple part of the American diet, especially in coastal communities.
French restaurants introduce buttery-creamy scallop dishes like the Coquille St. Jacques.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Baked Scallops Day
Local restaurants and seafood markets can celebrate National Baked Scallops Day by featuring special baked scallop dishes or offering discounts on fresh scallops for home cooking. Establishments could host a tasting event, showcasing different baked scallop preparations, from classic garlic butter to more innovative flavors. Cooking schools might offer special classes on mastering baked scallops, attracting food enthusiasts. Even local food bloggers or influencers can partner with businesses to promote recipes and highlight the best places to enjoy this delicate seafood.
National Baked Scallops Day FAQs
When is National Baked Scallops Day?
In 2027, National Baked Scallops Day is observed on Friday, March 12. This makes it an ideal culinary highlight for a weekend dinner or a special Lenten meal.
What are the different types of scallops?
Beyond sea and bay scallops, less common varieties like calico scallops exist, primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico. Each type offers a slightly different texture and sweetness profile, making them versatile for various baked dishes.
How many calories are in baked scallops?
Baked scallops are a healthy choice, offering around 17 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving with minimal fat. While the base calorie count is low, rich sauces or heavy breading will increase the overall caloric value of the dish.
What is the best way to bake scallops?
Achieving a golden crust and tender interior is key when baking scallops. Consider adding a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for extra texture, or bake them in a gratin dish with a creamy sauce for a richer presentation. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
National Baked Scallops Day Activities
Bake some scallops
Inviting people over for a scallop dinner is the best way to celebrate. Cook your favorite scallop recipe. Alternatively, look up baked shallot recipes online — from lemon garlic and creamy parmesan to spicy baked scallops.
Go scallop shopping
Take a trip down to the fish market or wharf if you live near the sea. It’s a trip that can offer rich insight and perspective into where our food comes from. Shop some fresh produce and come back with a renewed appreciation for food.
Visit a favorite restaurant
On National Baked Scallops Day, show your local restaurants some extra love. Make a beeline to your favorite clam shack or restaurant, and go all out!
5 Important Facts About Mussels
They have beards
Mussel beards or ‘byssus’ help secure them to solid surfaces where they continue growing.
Mussels keep oceans healthy
A single mussel removes sediment and phytoplankton from 5.2 gallons of seawater each day.
They pack a punch of iron
Mussels contain more iron than steak and keep us fuller for longer.
You can eat them unopened
Mussels that don’t open during cooking aren’t off — they just have stronger adductor muscles.
Their gender determines the color
Female mussels are orange, whereas male mussels are creamy white.
Why We Love National Baked Scallops Day
Sustainable seafood
Scallops are not only delicious but also a good sustainable choice. They’re native to most environments and can be one of the most sustainable seafood purchases you make. We suggest researching scallop farming in your area so you can make informed decisions.
Quick, nutritious meals for the win
There's no time like the present to stay committed to eating healthy. Scallops are nutritious and super easy to cook. So we’re reaffirming those healthy eating goals on National Baked Scallops Day.
An excuse to visit the sea
Some of us won’t end up cooking, no matter how hard we try. So today is perfect for a long overdue trip to a favorite seaside shack.
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