Scallops: festive treasures at a golden price? We tell you more!
Tender, flavorful meat, often enjoyed on special occasions. Are scallops still a coveted delicacy on your holiday plates? That's a good question. In December and January, scallop consumption accounts for around 30% to 40% of total annual consumption, according to Planetoscope. This means that around 13,500 to 18,000 tonnes are consumed over the festive period, with demand peaking before Christmas and New Year's meals. Their high prices tend to put off consumers, who prefer to opt for more affordable alternatives. At the same time, this is often excessive given the quantity used for starters or aperitifs. Count on between 15 and 30 euros for fresh, unshelled shells. In a way, these prices explain consumers' slight lack of interest in this shellfish...
Convincing replacements
Due to high prices and the diversification of food choices during the holidays, some consumers are now choosing other products for their festive meals. By 2023, oyster consumption in France during the festive season has been estimated at 25,000 tonnes (around 10% of total annual oyster consumption). One of the smartest substitutes for sea scallops is bay scallops. They're smaller, firmer and sometimes have a stronger taste. The only difference is the price: bay scallops are much less expensive and may be worth the effort to lighten the Christmas budget. Especially when it comes to the menu, you have recipes in which the scallop flavor is not central.
Here are a few recipe ideas for scallop lovers:
1. Scallops sea shells
This recipe combines the delicacy of scallops with the sweetness of leeks. To make it even more festive and crunchy, it's wrapped in brick pastry, creating a light, gourmet aperitif. Easy to make, this idea is sure to be a hit at Christmas, New Year's or any other festive occasion. A simple dish, but one that adds a touch of elegance and refinement to your table!
2. Risotto with scallops and saffron
In this recipe, scallops are sublimated in a homemade risotto, delicately flavored with saffron. Perfect for Christmas, New Year's Eve or any other festive occasion, this dish is worthy of special occasions. Easy to prepare thanks to our detailed instructions, it will delight your guests without stress or complication!
3. Pasta with scallops
If you've got scallops and want to incorporate them into a tasty pasta dish, this is the recipe for you! Seafood usually goes very well with pasta, but there's no better dish for a romantic dinner or to impress your guests.
Other ideas for festive dishes for lovers of the sea:
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