what is a scallop

A scallop is a type of bivalve mollusk that has two shells joined with a hinge within, which is nestled by a strong muscle called the adductor. This muscle gives the scallop its most unique characteristic among bivalves — scallops can swim. As the adductor expands and contracts, it opens and closes the creature's shells, expelling water from one end and causing the scallop to swim in the opposite direction. Scallops have a white adductor muscle that opens and closes the shell, as well as a bright orange section called the coral. The muscle is round and tender when cooked, with both a touch of sweetness and briny saltiness. The coral is also edible, but is not typically consumed in the U.S. There are two types of scallops: bay scallops and sea scallops. The bay variety are smaller (about the size of a dime) and more tender, while sea scallops are larger, growing as big as 2 inches.