National Baked Scallops Day – Mar. 12, 2027

National Baked Scallops Day
Categories:
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.

Want to sponsor National Baked Scallops Day? Learn how

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

Instagram

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.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalBakedScallopsDay. Share your favorite baked scallop recipes, tips, and photos with our community.

Social Media Tips for National Baked Scallops Day

Individuals

Experiment with new baked scallop recipes, from classic butter-garlic to more adventurous preparations with citrus or herbs. Share your culinary success with friends and family.

Creators

Produce a 'how-to' video series on perfectly baking scallops, covering everything from selecting fresh seafood to achieving a golden crust and pairing with complementary sides.

Brands

Seafood suppliers, restaurants, and cookware brands can host a 'Best Baked Scallop Recipe' contest, encouraging user-generated content and offering prizes related to gourmet cooking.

Top Brands for National Baked Scallops Day

  1. Red Lobster

    Founded in 1968 in Lakeland, Florida, Red Lobster is one of America's most recognized casual dining seafood restaurant chains. They are known for their fresh seafood offerings, including a variety of baked and broiled dishes, making them a popular spot for scallop lovers.

  2. Whole Foods Market

    Founded in 1978 in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market is a leading natural and organic food supermarket. They offer a wide selection of responsibly sourced fresh seafood, including high-quality scallops, making them a go-to for home cooks seeking premium ingredients.

  3. Legal Sea Foods

    Originating as a fish market in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1950, Legal Sea Foods has grown into a renowned restaurant group. They are celebrated for their commitment to fresh seafood, often featuring baked scallop dishes on their menus, reflecting their New England heritage.

  4. Fulton Fish Market

    Established in 1822 in New York City, Fulton Fish Market is one of the oldest and largest wholesale fish markets in the United States. Today, they also offer online delivery of fresh, high-quality seafood, including various types of scallops, directly to consumers nationwide.

  5. Wegmans

    A family-owned regional supermarket chain founded in 1916 in Rochester, New York, Wegmans is known for its extensive selection of gourmet foods, prepared meals, and fresh produce. Their seafood department often features a premium selection of scallops for home preparation.

  6. Stonewall Kitchen

    Founded in 1991 in Maine, Stonewall Kitchen is a specialty food producer known for its gourmet sauces, jams, and condiments. They offer a range of products, such as lemon-herb marinades or garlic aioli, that perfectly complement baked scallops.

  7. America's Test Kitchen

    America's Test Kitchen, founded in 1992, is a renowned culinary media company known for its meticulous recipe testing and objective reviews. They provide trusted recipes and techniques for preparing various dishes, including perfectly baked scallops, for home cooks.

National Baked Scallops Day Hero

Julia Child

Julia Child (1912–2004) was an iconic American chef, author, and television personality who brought French cuisine to the American public. Her groundbreaking cookbook 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' and television show 'The French Chef' demystified gourmet cooking, including elegant seafood preparations like scallops. Child's passion for quality ingredients and precise techniques inspired generations of home cooks to confidently tackle dishes like baked scallops.

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

1600s
Different Palates

America prefers lobster, clams, and oysters to the unusual taste of scallops.

1846
The First Documented Scallop Recipe

Things start to change when “Miss Beecher’s Domestic Receipt Book” mentions a recipe for lightly stewed and sauteed scallops.

1920s
Scallops Here, There, and Everywhere

The delicious scallop becomes a staple part of the American diet, especially in coastal communities.

1930s
Scallops Turn Fancy

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. They have beards

    Mussel beards or ‘byssus’ help secure them to solid surfaces where they continue growing.

  2. Mussels keep oceans healthy

    A single mussel removes sediment and phytoplankton from 5.2 gallons of seawater each day.

  3. They pack a punch of iron

    Mussels contain more iron than steak and keep us fuller for longer.

  4. You can eat them unopened

    Mussels that don’t open during cooking aren’t off — they just have stronger adductor muscles.

  5. Their gender determines the color

    Female mussels are orange, whereas male mussels are creamy white.

Why We Love National Baked Scallops Day

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

National Baked Scallops Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 March 12 Friday
2028 March 12 Sunday
2029 March 12 Monday
2030 March 12 Tuesday
2031 March 12 Wednesday