Dry scallops are much more preferable to wet scallops, which have been preserved in a brine. Wet scallops are usually not as fresh and also don’t brown up so nicely because of their higher water content. Dry scallops usually have a cleaner and sweeter flavor. If all you can find are wet sea scallops, make sure to pat them completely dry with clean dishtowels or paper towels before cooking them.