Appetizers for New Years Eve

Celebrate the New Year with easy appetizers and a host of celebratory cocktails from Food Network chefs. Try this appetizers for New Year’s eve: Scallops on the Half Shell by Alton Brown.

Ingredients:

* 8 ounces bay scallops
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 tablespoon minced garlic
* 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus a pinch
* 1 cup fresh bread crumbs or crushed crackers
* 2 medium size very ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.

Remove the side muscles from the scallops and rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry.

Melt the butter in a medium saute pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted add the garlic and a pinch of salt and cook for 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and toss in the bread crumbs until well combined. Set aside.

In a small bowl, toss together the tomato, parsley and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Evenly divide the tomato mixture between 4 oven proof ramekins or scallop shells. Place the scallops over the tomato mixture and top with the cracker or bread crumbs. Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve immediately.