Scallops are incredibly healthy and taste amazing when prepared simply. Here is what you need to know.

Picking fresh scallops:

The most important thing is smell. Fresh scallops smell clean, like the ocean. If they smell like ammonia (a strong chemical smell), they are not fresh - walk away.

Preparing them:

Remove the small muscle that connects the two shells. It is not harmful, just a bit tougher and chewier.

Simple seasoning that works beautifully:

• Full-fat yogurt
• A little ginger
• Two drops of olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Vanilla seeds (adds complexity without sweetness - its flavor comes from fermentation)
• A touch of honey or elderflower for natural sweetness

The big lesson: great food does not need to be complicated. Fresh ingredients with minimal seasoning is almost always the winning formula.