What is a Standard Scallop Serving?
In terms of nutritional information and general portion recommendations, a standard serving of scallops is typically around 3 to 3.5 ounces (or 85 to 100 grams) of cooked meat. However, simply using weight doesn't paint the whole picture, as the number of individual scallops you receive depends entirely on their size. The count-per-pound system is the industry standard for classifying scallop sizes, which is a crucial factor for home cooks to consider.
Scallop Size Matters: Sea vs. Bay
The most important distinction to understand is the difference between sea scallops and bay scallops. Sea scallops are significantly larger, sourced from deep, cold ocean waters. Bay scallops, conversely, are much smaller and sweeter, harvested from shallow bays and estuaries. This size difference directly impacts how many scallops you'll need for a single serving.
Calculating Scallop Count Per Serving
To determine how many scallops you'll get in a 3-ounce portion, you can use the industry's count-per-pound grading system. For example, a bag of '10-20' count scallops contains between 10 and 20 scallops per pound. Below is a more detailed breakdown based on common scallop types and sizes:
- For Super Colossal Scallops (U-8, U-10): A 3oz serving is just 2 to 4 scallops.
- For Colossal and Jumbo Scallops (10-30 count): Expect 2 to 6 scallops for a 3oz portion, depending on the exact size.
- For Large Scallops (30-40 count): A 3oz serving typically includes 6 to 8 large scallops.
- For Medium Scallops (40-60 count): You can serve 8 to 11 medium scallops to reach the 3oz mark.
- For Small Bay Scallops (60-120 count): A 3oz portion would be 11 to 23 of these smaller, sweeter scallops.
Comparison of Scallop Serving Sizes
| Scallop Type | Count per Pound | Approximate Number per 3oz Serving | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Colossal | U-10 | 2-4 | Pan-searing, grilling |
| Colossal/Jumbo | 10-30 | 2-6 | Main course, searing |
| Large | 30-40 | 6-8 | Pasta dishes, appetizers |
| Medium | 40-60 | 8-11 | Skewers, stir-fries |
| Small/Petite (Bay) | 60+ | 11+ | Soups, ceviche, pasta |
Adjusting Your Portion Size
Your ideal serving size may also change depending on your role for the scallops in the meal. If scallops are the main event, a larger portion is appropriate. If they are a starter or an ingredient in a larger dish, a smaller quantity is sufficient.
- Main Course: For a main dish where scallops are the primary protein, consider aiming for 6 ounces (170g) per person. This often translates to 4-6 large sea scallops or 8-10 medium ones.
- Appetizer: For a starter, about half of the main course portion (3 to 4 ounces) is recommended.
- Ingredient: If adding scallops to a pasta, soup, or salad, the number of scallops can be reduced to make them a complementary element rather than the focal point.
Other Factors for Consideration
When purchasing scallops, look for 'dry-packed' varieties, which do not contain the sodium phosphate solution found in 'wet' scallops. This preservative makes wet scallops absorb excess water, causing them to shrink more during cooking and making it difficult to achieve a proper sear. Paying attention to the type of scallop will ensure better cooking results and portion accuracy.
Conclusion: The Right Portion is Contextual
Ultimately, there is no single answer for how many scallops are considered a serving. The ideal quantity is a combination of weight and individual count, heavily influenced by the scallop's size and its role in your meal. For precise calorie and protein counts, a 3.5oz (100g) weight is a good reference point, offering approximately 24 grams of protein for just 137 calories. By considering both the weight and the size of your scallops, you can confidently prepare the perfect portion for any culinary application, from a simple seared dinner to an elaborate appetizer platter. For more details on scallop sizing and cooking, check out this guide from Fulton Fish Market.
