Scallops With Snail-Garlic Butter and Leeks

A la Carte's Note:

This is a total rip-off from Gourmet mag, so I don't take any credit for it. I only know I like it!

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter , softened
• 1 lb medium leek , white part only
• 1 ½ teaspoons chopped garlic
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 1⁄3; cup chopped rinsed canned snails
• 20 medium scallops
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 450°F.
2. Heat 2 Tbsp butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat until foam subsides. Stir in leeks and season with salt. Reduce heat to low and cook leeks, covered, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and keep warm.
3. Puree remaining 4 Tbsp butter with garlic, parsley, and snails. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Put scallops in gratin dishes. Season with salt and pepper, then dot each with 1 tsp snail/garlic butter.
5. Bake in the middle of the oven until scallops are just cooked through, about 9 minutes.
6. Serve topped with leeks and sprinkle with chives and remaining parsley.