Coquilles St Jacques

Name: Coquilles St Jacques
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large scallops; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

Coquilles St Jacques is a classic French dish featuring tender scallops in a creamy sauce, served in their shells for an elegant presentation.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T20:41:44.829Z

Coquilles St Jacques is not just a dish; it's an experience that transports you to the heart of French cuisine. The delicate balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that complements the tender scallops
Elegant presentation that impresses guests
Perfect for a romantic dinner or festive gatherings

      

The History of Coquilles St Jacques

Coquilles St Jacques, translating to 'shells of Saint James,' is a beloved dish that hails from the coastal regions of France. Traditionally associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, scallops have long been celebrated not only for their flavor but also for their symbolic connection to the sea and heritage. This dish is often prepared for special occasions, showcasing the chef's skills and creativity, making it a staple in French culinary traditions.

Over the years, Coquilles St Jacques has evolved from a simple recipe to an elaborate presentation, often served in the scallop shells themselves. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also maintains the seafood's natural flavors. The combination of scallops and a creamy sauce has made this dish a favorite on restaurant menus worldwide, particularly in fine dining establishments.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to pairing beverages with Coquilles St Jacques, a crisp dry white wine is an excellent choice. Wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complement the dish beautifully, enhancing the delicate flavors of the scallops while balancing the richness of the cream sauce. The acidity in these wines cuts through the cream, refreshing the palate with each bite.

For non-alcoholic options, consider serving a sparkling water infused with lemon or a citrus-based mocktail. These choices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich dish, making your dining experience even more enjoyable. Additionally, a light salad with vinaigrette can serve as a perfect starter, preparing your guests for the indulgence that follows.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with Coquilles St Jacques, ensure that you select the freshest scallops available. Look for ones with a sweet, briny scent and a firm texture. Avoid any that appear dull or have a strong fishy odor, as freshness is key to enhancing the dish's overall flavor.

Additionally, take care not to overcook the scallops, as they can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long. Cooking them until they are just opaque is ideal, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. Finally, don't skip the breadcrumbs and parsley topping; this adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color, elevating the dish both in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Coquilles St Jacques

12 large scallops
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to use fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture.

Directions

Prepare the Scallops

Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 5 minutes.

Add Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.

Cook the Scallops

Add the scallops to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are opaque and cooked through.

Assemble the Dish

Spoon the scallops and sauce into shells or a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and parsley on top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Coquilles St Jacques with a glass of white wine!

Serving Suggestions

Coquilles St Jacques is best served immediately after baking to ensure the scallops remain tender and the sauce is warm. Pair the dish with a side of crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. This not only adds texture but also rounds out the meal beautifully, making it satisfying and complete.

For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with additional fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their scallops for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While it's best to enjoy Coquilles St Jacques fresh, you can gently reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking the scallops. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and heat until warmed through.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the scallops may suffer. However, if you do choose to freeze the dish, be aware that the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, prepare this dish fresh to enjoy its full richness and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Coquilles St Jacques ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and scallops ahead of time and assemble before baking.

→ What can I serve with Coquilles St Jacques?

This dish pairs well with a light salad and crusty bread.

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking for the best results.

→ Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.