When buying scallops, look for fresh medallions that have a sweet smell with a slightly translucent appearance. Fresh scallops should be firm to the touch and boast a creamy, white color. If the scallops you find have a fishy smell, feel slimy, or have a grayed or yellowed appearance, they have gone bad.
If you do decide to go with a frozen scallop, this is actually a great option. As long as they aren’t kept for too long, and they are properly defrosted before being cooked, the end product can be just as delicious as a fresh scallop. Fresh scallops are the ideal option, but they can definitely be pricey and they need to be prepared right away.
If you’re wondering what the best place to look for fresh or frozen scallops would be, the answer is actually pretty broad. Most fish markets will have some great options for fresh-caught scallops. They typically sell scallops by the pound, whether they’re fresh or frozen. While it’s likely you will find fresh scallops at any upscale grocery store or market, a fish market is your best bet for the highest quality shellfish.