CRISPY SCALLOP CAKES WITH BALSAMIC DRESSED TOMATOES

Steps:

• Rinse the scallops in fresh water and dry, then chop the scallops.
• The pieces should be about the size of a kernel of corn.
• Chop the mozzarella into the same sized pieces as the scallops.
• Combine scallops, mozzarella, shallots, parsley, Old Bay, oregano, thyme and salt and pepper in a bowl.
• Cover and chill for at least an hour.
• Shortly before cooking, rinse the tomatoes and half length-wise.
• Toss with vinegar and olive oil.
• Set aside.
• Once chilled, you will need to work quickly.
• Form mixture into two inch balls.
• Heat a non-stick pan over med-high heat.
• Add butter.
• As soon as the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the scallop balls to the pan.
• Press down on each ball to form the patty shape.
• The only thing holding the patties together is the melted cheese, so you will not be able to turn the patty until the cheese has melted and formed a crispy crust on the bottom.
• So, cook until the patty is dark brown and you can turn it easily.
• If the butter starts to burn, turn the heat down just a little bit and add a little canola oil (which has a higher burn point).
• Once the patties are brown on both sides, remove from pan and drain on a paper towel.
• The cheese should be crispy on both sides and should not stick.
• Serve topped with the tomato mixture.
• I like to serve them as a first course: two patties with a few tomato halves on top of each one.