12 Grilled Scallops Recipes That Are Juicy, Charred, And Restaurant-Worthy

Grilled scallops are the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality seafood right to your backyard grill. Their naturally sweet, tender flesh gets a beautiful smoky char that transforms every bite into a juicy, flavorful experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a special dinner, or just craving something light and elegant, grilled scallops offer a quick, impressive dish that never fails to wow.

This collection of 12 grilled scallops recipes showcases a variety of marinades, seasonings, and serving styles designed to highlight the delicate texture and rich taste of these shellfish gems. From zesty citrus infusions to bold herb blends and spicy kick options, each recipe has been carefully chosen to help you master the art of grilling scallops to perfection. You’ll find step-by-step tips on how to get that ideal sear without overcooking, ensuring every scallop is juicy and tender inside with a beautiful char on the outside.

Whether you’re a seafood lover looking to elevate your grilling game or simply want to add something special to your meal rotation, these recipes promise to deliver dishes worthy of your favorite coastal restaurant. Dive in and discover fresh flavor combinations that will make your next meal a memorable celebration of the sea’s finest.

Herbed Parmesan Crusted Scallops

Herbed Parmesan Crusted Scallops are a delicious way to elevate your seafood game. These scallops are juicy and tender, topped with a savory, crispy herb and cheese crust that adds a burst of flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party.

When grilled to perfection, the scallops take on a delightful char that complements the rich parmesan and fresh herbs beautifully. This dish is sure to become a favorite for its quick preparation and mouthwatering taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound scallops
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pat the scallops dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Place the scallops on a grill pan or directly on the grill. Top each scallop with the herb and cheese mixture, pressing it down gently.
5. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.

Mediterranean Herb Scallops

This Mediterranean Herb Scallops recipe combines tender scallops with fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. The bright notes from the herbs and the slight char from grilling elevates the natural sweetness of the scallops, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

With just a few ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. It highlights the scallops’ texture and taste, making it a delightful meal that feels restaurant-worthy right at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Add the scallops to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have beautiful grill marks.
5. Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Scallops

Honey Sriracha glazed scallops are a delightful dish that brings together sweet and spicy flavors. The combination of honey and Sriracha creates a sticky glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, making each bite a delicious experience.

This recipe is simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. With just a few ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound scallops
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Scallops: Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Add the Glaze: Pour the honey Sriracha mixture over the scallops in the last minute of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
5. Serve: Plate the scallops, drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Scallops

Bacon-wrapped grilled scallops are a delightful combination of flavors that’s sure to impress at any gathering. The sweetness of the scallops pairs perfectly with the smoky, salty crunch of bacon, creating a bite that’s both juicy and savory. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike.

Grilling the scallops adds a wonderful char that enhances their natural flavors, while the bacon helps keep them moist. Serve these as an appetizer or as a main dish with a fresh salad on the side. They are quick to prepare and cook, making them an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 large sea scallops
• 6 slices of bacon, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season them with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on the grill, making sure they are not touching.
5. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
6. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic Herb Skewered Scallops

Garlic Herb Skewered Scallops are a deliciously simple dish that brings a taste of the coast right to your grill. With their tender texture and rich flavor, these scallops are perfectly complemented by the freshness of herbs and a hint of garlic. Grilling adds a nice char that enhances their natural sweetness, making them a fantastic option for a casual dinner or an elegant gathering.

This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet the results are stunning. Serve them as an appetizer or a main course, and watch as your guests rave about these juicy, charred delights!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add scallops to the bowl and gently toss to coat them in the marinade. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated scallops onto the skewers, spacing them evenly.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the scallops are opaque and slightly charred.
6. Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Lemon Garlic Butter Grilled Scallops

Grilling scallops with lemon garlic butter is a delightful and simple way to elevate this seafood dish. The combination of zesty lemon and rich butter enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Not only are these grilled scallops quick to prepare, but they also deliver impressive flavor, making them perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can achieve a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled.
2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and then brush both sides with the butter mixture.
4. Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Spicy Mango Chili Glaze Scallops

Looking for a delicious seafood dish that’s easy to whip up? These grilled scallops with a spicy mango chili glaze are just what you need. Juicy scallops are perfectly charred on the grill, and the sweet, zesty glaze adds a delightful kick. This recipe is not only simple to make but also brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen.

The combination of succulent scallops and the vibrant mango chili glaze creates a balance of sweetness and heat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large scallops
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Glaze: In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, honey, lime juice, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and set aside.
2. Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Scallops: Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Glaze the Scallops: Brush the mango chili glaze over the scallops during the last minute of cooking, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly.
6. Serve: Remove scallops from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or serve over a salad for a light meal.

Coconut Lime Grilled Scallops

Grilled scallops are a delight, and adding coconut and lime takes them to a whole new level of flavor. This recipe highlights the sweetness of the scallops, balanced perfectly with the zesty lime and tropical coconut. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party.

The marinade of coconut milk, lime juice, and a touch of seasoning infuses the scallops with a refreshing taste. Throw them on the grill for just a few minutes until they’re charred and juicy. Serve them up with some lime wedges and a sprinkle of coconut for an eye-catching dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Scallops: In a bowl, mix together coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the scallops and let them marinate for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Scallops: Remove the scallops from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Smoky Paprika Grilled Scallops

Grilled scallops infused with smoky paprika make for a delicious and elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The smoky flavor from the paprika not only enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops but also adds a beautiful color that makes this dish visually appealing.

This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special night in. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick grilling time, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal that captures the essence of summer.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops in cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear when grilling.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the scallops and toss until they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to high. If using skewers, thread the scallops onto them for easy flipping.
4. Grill: Place the scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the scallops from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.

Pesto Grilled Scallops

Pesto grilled scallops are a fantastic way to elevate your seafood game. The combination of succulent scallops and vibrant basil pesto creates a dish that’s both fresh and savory. It’s simple to make and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy evening at home.

This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops, balanced perfectly with the rich, herby flavors of the pesto. They cook quickly on the grill, making this a hassle-free option for dinner. Pair them with roasted tomatoes and nuts for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup unsalted cashews, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the scallops with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
3. Thread the scallops onto skewers for easy grilling.
4. Grill the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. While grilling, toss the cherry tomatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place them on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are slightly blistered.
6. Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the grill and plate them with the grilled tomatoes. Drizzle with pesto and sprinkle with chopped cashews. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Chili Lime Grilled Scallops

Chili lime grilled scallops are a perfect blend of zest and heat, making them a delightful dish for any occasion. These scallops are marinated in a tangy chili lime sauce that enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a juicy and charred finish that’s sure to impress.

This recipe is simple to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time. Just a quick marinade and a few minutes on the grill, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready to wow your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Scallops: Place the scallops in the marinade and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Scallops: Place the marinated scallops on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Scallops

Teriyaki glazed grilled scallops are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the natural brininess of scallops. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances the scallops’ succulent texture, creating a restaurant-worthy meal at home. Serve these shiny, caramelized bites with a sprinkling of green onions for a fresh finish, and enjoy a taste sensation that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Marinate the Scallops: In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, olive oil, honey, and sesame oil. Add the scallops and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Grill the Scallops: Thread scallops onto skewers, if desired, and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and grill marks appear.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and serve hot.

Final Thoughts
Grilled scallops are proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care and the right technique, can create spectacular dishes. These 12 recipes bring together the perfect balance of juiciness, char, and flavor that will impress any palate. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger feast, grilled scallops are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe in your culinary collection. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy!