Seared Scallops with Apple Wood Smoked Gouda Grits

seared scallops

I keep my eyes on the grocery ads each week for sales on certain items, especially seafood. In those rare times when sea scallops are priced within my budget, I make sure to plan a meal featuring them.

Scallops are fairly easy to prepare and it’s best to buy them fresh, not frozen. If you happen to buy them frozen, make sure you drain the excess liquid and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking them so you get a nice golden sear as shown in the photo. Then try different accompaniments to serve along with them like polenta or grits.

You might be thinking, “Wait, did she just say grits?” Hey, I get it. Polenta has become a very popular side dish in the past few years and even I have to admit that it sounds much sexier saying, “…served on a bed of polenta,” than saying, “…served on a bed of grits”.

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