The question of whether to pair cheese with scallops is a culinary debate with strong opinions on both sides. At first glance, the delicate sweetness of scallops might seem at odds with the often-pungent or rich flavors of cheese. However, the reality is more nuanced. The success of pairing scallops and cheese depends entirely on the specific types of cheese and how they are prepared with the scallops.
Understanding Scallops: A Delicate Canvas
Before delving into cheese pairings, it’s crucial to appreciate the inherent qualities of scallops. Scallops are prized for their subtly sweet, almost buttery flavor and delicate texture. They are versatile and can be prepared in various ways, from searing and grilling to baking and poaching. This versatility also plays a role in determining whether cheese can be a suitable addition.
Scallops are also naturally low in fat. This means that they can benefit from the richness that a well-chosen cheese can provide, provided that the cheese does not overwhelm the scallop’s natural flavor.
The Different Types of Scallops
The term “scallops” encompasses a variety of species, each with its own distinct characteristics. The most common types are:
- Sea Scallops: These are the larger variety, typically harvested from deeper waters. They boast a firm texture and a pronounced sweetness.
- Bay Scallops: Smaller and more tender than sea scallops, bay scallops have a delicate sweetness. They are often used in sauces and stews due to their size and tenderness.
- Calico Scallops: These are the smallest and least expensive variety. They have a somewhat less pronounced flavor than the other two types.
Knowing which type of scallop you’re working with is essential when considering cheese pairings. The stronger the scallop’s flavor, the better it will stand up to more robust cheeses.
Preparation Matters: Searing, Grilling, and More
The cooking method used for scallops also significantly affects how cheese will complement them.
- Seared Scallops: Searing brings out the natural sweetness of the scallop and creates a beautiful caramelized crust. This preparation method is versatile and can be paired with a variety of cheeses.
- Grilled Scallops: Grilling imparts a smoky flavor to the scallops, which can pair well with certain cheeses like smoked gouda or even a mild, crumbly blue cheese.
- Baked Scallops: Baking often involves adding other ingredients like breadcrumbs, herbs, and butter. Cheese can be easily incorporated into a baked scallop dish.
- Scallop Ceviche: The raw preparation of ceviche usually involves citrus juices, which might not be a natural fit for most cheeses.
Exploring Cheese and Scallop Pairings: A World of Possibilities
The key to successfully pairing cheese with scallops lies in finding a balance between the flavors and textures. The cheese should enhance, not overpower, the delicate sweetness of the scallop.
Light and Fresh Cheeses: A Delicate Dance
For a subtle pairing, consider light and fresh cheeses:
- Ricotta: A mild, creamy ricotta can add a touch of richness without overwhelming the scallops. It works particularly well in baked scallop dishes or served alongside seared scallops with a drizzle of lemon juice.
- Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tangy, slightly acidic flavor of goat cheese can provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of scallops. A crumbled goat cheese on top of seared scallops or a goat cheese sauce served alongside can be delicious. However, choose a mild goat cheese to avoid overpowering the scallop.
- Feta: Similar to goat cheese, feta offers a salty and tangy counterpoint. A small amount of crumbled feta can add a burst of flavor to grilled or baked scallops. Be mindful of the salt content, as feta can be quite salty.
- Mascarpone: This Italian cream cheese is incredibly rich and smooth. A small dollop of mascarpone can add a luxurious touch to seared scallops, especially when paired with a sweet element like balsamic glaze.
Semi-Hard Cheeses: Adding Depth and Complexity
Semi-hard cheeses can offer a more pronounced flavor profile that complements scallops:
- Gruyère: This Swiss cheese has a nutty, slightly earthy flavor that can stand up to the sweetness of scallops. It melts beautifully, making it a great choice for baked scallop dishes or gratins.
- Comté: Similar to Gruyère, Comté has a complex flavor with notes of fruit, nuts, and earth. It pairs well with scallops prepared in a creamy sauce.
- Monterey Jack: A mild, slightly tangy cheese that melts well, Monterey Jack can be a good choice for scallop quesadillas or tacos.
- Provolone: A smooth, slightly sharp cheese, provolone can be grated over baked scallops or used in a scallop melt sandwich.
Strong and Aged Cheeses: Proceed with Caution
Pairing strong and aged cheeses with scallops requires more careful consideration:
- Parmesan: A small amount of grated Parmesan can add a salty, umami note to scallops. However, use it sparingly as it can easily overwhelm the delicate flavor. Parmesan crisps served alongside seared scallops can be a nice touch.
- Aged Cheddar: The sharp, nutty flavor of aged cheddar can clash with the sweetness of scallops if not used carefully. A very small amount of finely grated aged cheddar might work in a baked scallop dish with other complementary flavors.
- Blue Cheese: The pungent, salty flavor of blue cheese can be a surprising but successful pairing with scallops, especially grilled scallops. However, choose a milder blue cheese and use it sparingly. Roquefort, for example, would likely be too strong.
- Smoked Gouda: The smoky flavor of smoked gouda can complement grilled scallops beautifully. The cheese adds a depth of flavor that enhances the smoky notes of the scallops.
Cheese to Avoid: Overpowering Flavors
Certain cheeses are generally best avoided when pairing with scallops, as their strong flavors will likely overwhelm the delicate seafood:
- Limburger: The notoriously pungent aroma and flavor of Limburger would completely mask the taste of scallops.
- Stilton: Similar to Roquefort, Stilton is a very strong blue cheese that is not well-suited for pairing with scallops.
- Epoisses: This creamy, pungent cheese is delicious on its own but would overpower the delicate flavor of scallops.
Preparation Techniques: Bringing Cheese and Scallops Together
Beyond choosing the right cheese, the method of preparation is crucial for a harmonious pairing.
Gratins and Baked Dishes
One of the easiest ways to incorporate cheese with scallops is in a gratin or baked dish. The cheese melts beautifully and creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that complements the scallops. Gruyère, Comté, and Monterey Jack are excellent choices for gratins.
Sauces and Creams
Cheese can be incorporated into sauces and creams that are served alongside seared or grilled scallops. A light goat cheese cream sauce or a Parmesan cream sauce can add richness and flavor.
Toppings and Garnishes
A small amount of crumbled cheese can be used as a topping or garnish for scallops. Goat cheese, feta, and Parmesan are all good options.
Quesadillas and Tacos
Scallops can be used in quesadillas and tacos, and cheese is a natural addition. Monterey Jack, cheddar, and provolone are good choices for these dishes.
Balancing Flavors: Sweet, Acidic, and Savory
When pairing cheese with scallops, it’s important to consider the overall balance of flavors. Sweetness, acidity, and savoriness should all be in harmony.
- Sweetness: The natural sweetness of scallops can be enhanced with other sweet elements like caramelized onions, balsamic glaze, or fruit salsas.
- Acidity: A touch of acidity, such as lemon juice, white wine, or vinegar, can help to cut through the richness of the cheese and balance the flavors.
- Savoriness: Herbs, spices, and vegetables can add savory notes that complement both the scallops and the cheese.
Examples of Successful Cheese and Scallop Dishes
Here are a few examples of well-executed cheese and scallop dishes:
- Seared Scallops with Goat Cheese and Balsamic Glaze: The tangy goat cheese and sweet balsamic glaze provide a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the seared scallops.
- Scallop Gratin with Gruyère and Breadcrumbs: The nutty Gruyère cheese melts beautifully over the scallops, creating a creamy and flavorful gratin.
- Grilled Scallops with Smoked Gouda and Corn Salsa: The smoky Gouda complements the grilled scallops, while the corn salsa adds sweetness and acidity.
- Scallop Quesadillas with Monterey Jack and Mango Salsa: The mild Monterey Jack cheese and sweet mango salsa create a delicious and balanced quesadilla.
Conclusion: Embrace the Experimentation
The question of whether you can put cheese on scallops is not a simple yes or no. The key is to choose the right cheese and prepare it in a way that complements, rather than overpowers, the delicate flavor of the scallops. With careful consideration and a willingness to experiment, you can create delicious and memorable cheese and scallop dishes. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations and find your own favorite pairings. The world of seafood and cheese is waiting to be explored.
Can you generally put cheese on scallops?
While pairing cheese with seafood isn’t always a culinary slam dunk, putting cheese on scallops is a possibility, albeit a nuanced one. The key is to choose cheeses that complement the delicate sweetness and briny flavor of the scallops without overpowering them. Bold, pungent cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar are generally discouraged, as they can mask the scallops’ subtle notes.
Instead, consider milder, creamier cheeses that offer a textural contrast and a hint of richness. Think of cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyere, or even a light goat cheese. The preparation method also matters; grilled or pan-seared scallops with a sprinkle of cheese are often more successful than heavily cheesed, baked scallop dishes.
What types of cheeses pair best with scallops?
When pairing cheese with scallops, the goal is to enhance, not obliterate, their natural flavor. Parmesan, with its nutty and slightly salty character, can be a great choice, especially when grated finely and used sparingly. Gruyere, offering a subtle sweetness and a melty texture, also complements scallops nicely.
Another excellent option is a creamy, mild goat cheese. Its tanginess can cut through the richness of the scallops without being overpowering. Avoid strong cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar, which can easily overwhelm the delicate taste of the seafood. The key is to select a cheese that adds a subtle layer of complexity rather than dominating the dish.
What are some successful scallop and cheese recipe ideas?
One successful scallop and cheese recipe involves pan-searing scallops and then topping them with a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. The Parmesan adds a touch of umami and a slightly salty counterpoint to the scallops’ sweetness. Another option is to create a scallop gratin with a Gruyere cheese sauce, ensuring the sauce is light and doesn’t mask the scallops’ flavor.
Alternatively, consider topping grilled scallops with a small dollop of creamy goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This combination offers a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that work well with the scallops’ inherent sweetness. Remember to use a light hand with the cheese to allow the scallops to remain the star of the dish.
Why do some chefs advise against pairing cheese and seafood?
The age-old adage about not mixing seafood and cheese often stems from the fear of flavors clashing. Strong, overpowering cheeses can easily mask the delicate flavors of seafood, creating a muddy or unpleasant taste experience. Historically, certain pairings were also believed to cause digestive issues, although this claim is largely unfounded.
However, modern culinary practices have shown that with careful consideration, cheese and seafood can indeed complement each other. The key lies in selecting the right types of cheese and using them sparingly to enhance rather than dominate the dish. The fear of flavor clashes is valid but can be overcome with thoughtful pairings.
How does the cooking method influence the success of cheese and scallop pairings?
The cooking method plays a crucial role in determining the success of cheese and scallop pairings. For instance, pan-seared or grilled scallops often pair better with cheese because these methods allow the scallops’ natural flavor to shine through, with the cheese added as a finishing touch. A light sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of goat cheese can complement the seared scallops beautifully.
On the other hand, baking scallops in a heavy cheese sauce can easily overwhelm their delicate flavor. If baking is the preferred method, ensure the cheese sauce is light and well-balanced. Consider using milder cheeses and incorporating fresh herbs to brighten the dish and prevent the cheese from becoming too dominant.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when pairing cheese with scallops?
One common mistake is using too much cheese, which can completely mask the delicate flavor of the scallops. Remember that the goal is to enhance, not overwhelm. Another error is selecting overly strong or pungent cheeses, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar, which are generally incompatible with scallops.
Furthermore, avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly and detract from the dish’s overall texture. Opt for freshly grated cheese whenever possible. Finally, neglecting to balance the flavors with other ingredients, such as herbs, lemon juice, or a touch of spice, can result in a dish that lacks complexity and interest.
Are there any regional cuisines that traditionally pair cheese with scallops?
While not a deeply ingrained tradition, some regional cuisines, particularly in Europe, feature dishes that incorporate cheese with seafood, including scallops. Certain Italian and French preparations may include a light dusting of Parmesan or Gruyere on scallops, often in gratins or baked dishes.
However, these pairings are typically approached with restraint and a focus on using milder cheeses that complement rather than overpower the seafood. In some coastal regions, you might find variations on scallop dishes where a small amount of cheese is used to add richness and depth to the flavor profile. These regional variations demonstrate that the combination of cheese and scallops, while not universally common, can be successful when executed thoughtfully.