14 Summer Scallop Recipes That Go From Pan To Plate In Minutes

Summer scallop recipes bring out the best in this tender, sweet seafood with light, vibrant flavors that perfectly match the season. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a backyard gathering, or just craving something elegant yet effortless, scallops are your ticket to a gourmet meal with minimal prep. Their naturally delicate texture and rich flavor make them a favorite among seafood lovers, and when cooked right—pan-seared, grilled, or tossed into a refreshing salad—they deliver restaurant-quality taste in just minutes.

In this handpicked collection of 14 summer scallop recipes, you’ll find dishes that highlight the versatility of scallops while keeping things light and seasonal. Think citrusy marinades, fresh herbs, bright salsas, and crisp vegetable pairings that add texture and color to your plate. These recipes are designed to maximize flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen—just simple, fresh ingredients and a hot pan.

Whether you’re working with sea scallops or bay scallops, each recipe provides helpful tips to get that perfect golden crust and tender center every time. You’ll discover options that pair beautifully with summer staples like corn, tomatoes, zucchini, or pasta, along with ideas for appetizers, mains, and light salads. With most dishes coming together in under 30 minutes, you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine and less time cooking.

So if you’re ready to savor the flavors of summer without the fuss, these scallop recipes are just what you need to elevate your meals in a flash.

Cilantro Lime Seared Scallops

Cilantro lime seared scallops are a fresh and zesty dish perfect for summer. The scallops are seared to golden perfection, offering a delightful contrast between the tender inside and the crispy outside. The bright flavors of lime and cilantro lift the dish, making it light and refreshing, ideal for warm evenings.

This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to go from pan to plate in minutes. It’s perfect for a weekday meal or an impressive dinner party starter. Just a few ingredients are needed to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan.
3. Sear the Scallops: Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque in the center. Avoid moving them around too much to get a nice sear.
4. Add Lime and Cilantro: Once cooked, remove the scallops from heat, and squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Sprinkle with lime zest and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve: Arrange the scallops on a plate and garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Tomato Basil Scallop Salad

This Tomato Basil Scallop Salad is a refreshing and light dish perfect for summer. With tender scallops seared to a golden perfection, combined with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s a delightful medley of flavors that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.

Simple to whip up, this salad allows the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through. Paired with a light drizzle of balsamic reduction, every bite bursts with freshness. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh sea scallops
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, toss together cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
4. Arrange the tomato and basil mixture on a plate, top with seared scallops, and drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.

Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

Lemon garlic butter scallops are a delightful dish that combines tender, succulent scallops with the zesty brightness of lemon and the rich flavor of garlic. This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of buttery goodness and tangy lemon elevates the scallops, resulting in a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

The recipe comes together in just a few minutes, so you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Whether served over pasta, alongside sautéed vegetables, or simply with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
4. Drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the scallops. Toss gently to coat.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Pesto Scallop Pasta

Pesto scallop pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the sweet, tender flavor of scallops with the vibrant freshness of basil pesto. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress guests. With a quick cooking time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

The combination of al dente pasta, succulent scallops, and rich pesto creates a wonderfully balanced dish. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or casual weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 lb scallops
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Combine Ingredients: Reduce heat to low, then add the drained pasta and pesto to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta, top with seared scallops, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your meal!

Spicy Mango Scallop Skewers

These Spicy Mango Scallop Skewers are a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The juicy mango pairs beautifully with tender scallops, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The spiciness adds a kick, making these skewers a delightful treat for your taste buds.

Not only are they quick to prepare, but they are also incredibly simple to make, perfect for summer gatherings or a weeknight dinner. Just marinate the scallops, skewer them with mango pieces, and grill to perfection for a dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Scallops: Add the scallops to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread a piece of mango onto a skewer, followed by a scallop. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
4. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill over medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful skewers!

Garlic Herb Broiled Scallops

Garlic Herb Broiled Scallops are a quick and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of scallops. This recipe is super simple, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon elevates these tender morsels to a delightful dish that’s sure to impress.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy perfectly broiled scallops that are both light and satisfying. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal that captures the essence of summer.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your broiler. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
2. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the scallops to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly in the marinade.
4. Arrange the scallops on a broiler-safe baking dish in a single layer.
5. Broil the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and opaque.
6. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Creamy Parmesan Scallop Risotto

Creamy Parmesan Scallop Risotto is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of scallops with the comforting creaminess of risotto. The scallops are seared to golden perfection, providing a beautiful contrast to the soft, cheesy rice. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs adds depth and a burst of flavor, elevating the risotto to a whole new level. Plus, it only takes a few ingredients and minimal time, making it achievable even for novice cooks. Your family and friends will be amazed at your culinary skills!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound scallops, cleaned
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent.
3. Add the Arborio rice, stirring for about 2 minutes until slightly toasted.
4. Pour in the white wine and simmer until fully absorbed, stirring frequently.
5. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, season the scallops with salt and pepper, and sear them in a separate skillet over high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Once the risotto is ready, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Plate the risotto and top with seared scallops. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Asian-Inspired Scallop Stir-Fry

This Asian-inspired scallop stir-fry brings together the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops with vibrant vegetables and a tangy sauce, making it a delightful dish for summer. It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party.

The combination of scallops, bell peppers, and greens, all tossed in a savory sauce, creates a colorful and satisfying meal. Plus, it can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and season with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add garlic and bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add snap peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes. Return the scallops to the skillet.
4. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, adding Sriracha if desired for extra heat.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Scallops with Corn and Avocado Salsa

This dish is a perfect way to enjoy summer flavors, combining the sweetness of scallops with the vibrant freshness of corn and avocado salsa. Pan-seared scallops are juicy and tender, while the salsa adds a zesty kick, making it a delightful meal that comes together in just a few minutes.

It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. The combination of textures and tastes will leave everyone craving more!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salsa: In a bowl, combine corn, avocado, red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Cook the Scallops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Plate and Serve: Arrange the scallops on a plate and spoon the corn and avocado salsa on top or beside them. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Scallops with Asparagus and Lemon Zest

This dish combines succulent scallops with tender asparagus, all brightened by a hint of lemon zest. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s perfect for summer dining. The sweetness of the scallops pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the asparagus and the citrusy notes from the lemon, creating a delightful taste that’s sure to impress.

Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also makes for a light and healthy meal. In just a few minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these scallops are a wonderful choice.

Ingredients

• 1 pound scallops
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Asparagus: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3–4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Scallops: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted and hot, add the scallops. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Add the lemon zest during the last minute of cooking.
3. Combine and Serve: Return the asparagus to the skillet to warm through. Serve the scallops alongside the asparagus, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Mediterranean Scallop Platter

This Mediterranean Scallop Platter is a delightful dish that showcases the fresh and vibrant flavors of summer. With its combination of perfectly seared scallops, colorful vegetables, and briny olives, it offers a taste of the Mediterranean right on your plate. It’s not only quick to make but also easy to customize according to your preferences.

The scallops become beautifully caramelized on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Paired with roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and olives, this dish is a fresh and satisfying option for any summer meal. Gather your ingredients, and you’ll have this stunning platter ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the diced bell peppers and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until softened.
2. While the vegetables are roasting, pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque.
4. Once the scallops are cooked, arrange them on a platter with the roasted vegetables and sprinkle with olives, parsley, and lemon zest.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Buffalo Scallops with Blue Cheese Crumbles

Buffalo scallops are a fantastic way to enjoy the savory, buttery flavor of scallops with a spicy twist. This dish combines tender scallops sautéed to perfection with a zesty buffalo sauce, finished off with creamy blue cheese crumbles. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be prepared in just minutes, making it perfect for warm summer evenings or casual gatherings.

The combination of tangy buffalo sauce with the rich, creamy blue cheese creates a delightful balance that will have your taste buds dancing. Serve these scallops alongside crisp celery sticks for that classic buffalo flavor experience, making it a fun, finger-food option that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Celery sticks for serving
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sauté the Scallops: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and opaque in the center.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour buffalo sauce over the cooked scallops and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
4. Serve: Transfer the scallops to a serving platter and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with celery sticks on the side.

Herbed Scallops on Quinoa

Herbed scallops on quinoa is a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. The sweetness of the scallops pairs beautifully with the nutty quinoa, creating a simple yet elegant meal. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Seasoned with fresh herbs, these scallops deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. They sear to a golden perfection, adding a delightful texture to the tender quinoa base. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, ensuring you eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 pound scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking.
4. Combine: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley and basil. Serve the scallops over the quinoa and garnish with lemon wedges.

Chili Lime Scallop Tacos

Chili lime scallop tacos are a quick and delicious way to enjoy fresh seafood. The bright and zesty flavors of chili and lime bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops, making each bite a real treat. These tacos are easy to whip up and perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a flavorful meal on the table in no time. The combination of grilled scallops, fresh veggies, and tangy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the scallops and toss to coat. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes.
2. Cook the Scallops: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and opaque.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the scallops cook, warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet or directly on the grill for a few seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few scallops on each tortilla, then top with diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired.
5. Serve: Enjoy your chili lime scallop tacos immediately for the best flavor!

Final Thoughts
Quick, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, these 14 summer scallop recipes are the perfect solution for easy warm-weather dining. Whether you’re entertaining or treating yourself to a special meal, these dishes prove that great seafood doesn’t need to be complicated—just fresh, seasonal, and cooked with care. Dive in and let summer shine on your plate.