This BBQ Scallops recipe is a delightful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of scallops with a smoky, charred finish. Grilled to perfection, the scallops are infused with a zesty marinade that enhances their flavor while keeping them tender and juicy. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this BBQ scallops recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of a tangy marinade and the smoky grill creates a dish that delights the palate. Scallops cook quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. With their low calorie count and high protein content, scallops fit wonderfully into a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re on a keto diet, paleo plan, or simply looking for a lean seafood option.
Tips and Tricks
1. Choose Fresh Scallops: Always opt for fresh, high-quality scallops. Look for those that are plump and smell like the ocean, not fishy.
2. Marinate Wisely: Allow the scallops to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but avoid marinating for too long, as the acid can toughen the meat.
3. Skewer for Stability: If grilling, consider skewering the scallops to prevent them from falling through the grates. This also makes it easier to turn them on the grill.
4. Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the scallops. This will ensure a nice sear and prevent sticking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can clean and prepare the scallops a few hours before grilling, but it’s best to marinate them closer to serving time for optimal flavor. Cooked scallops can be kept in the fridge for up to two days, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Recipe Variations
- Herb-Infused Marinade: Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy version of the BBQ scallops.
- Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the scallops in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop for a similar charred flavor.
How to Serve
Serve the BBQ scallops on a large platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or microgreens for a pop of color. Pair them with a slice of lemon for squeezing over the top and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for added elegance. They make a stunning centerpiece for a summer feast or a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your BBQ scallops with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied rosé. For cocktails, consider a refreshing mojito or a gin and tonic with a hint of cucumber. As for side dishes, a light salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette or grilled asparagus would pair beautifully. For dessert, a sorbet or a fruit tart would cleanse the palate nicely.
How to Store
Leftover BBQ scallops should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. If you wish to freeze them, place them in an airtight freezer bag, as they are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, or briefly in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
Equipment Needed
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Skewers (if using)
- Whisk for mixing the marinade
- Small bowl for marinating
- Tongs for flipping the scallops
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan option, use grilled tofu or mushrooms instead of scallops, marinating them in the same sauce. For those needing allergen-friendly options, ensure the marinade is gluten-free and omit any ingredients that may cause allergies (like soy sauce). Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, fresh herbs and citrus are abundant, making them perfect for your marinade. In fall, consider adding a hint of maple syrup for a sweeter profile or using roasted garlic for a heartier flavor.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
2. What if I don’t have a grill? You can use a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet to achieve similar results.
3. How long should I cook scallops? Typically, they need about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on size.
How To Make bbq scallops recipe
BBQ Scallops
This BBQ Scallops recipe is a delightful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of scallops with a smoky, charred finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh sea scallops
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the scallops to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- If using skewers, thread the scallops onto them, leaving a little space between each.
- Place the scallops on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and have grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and allow to rest for a minute.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 257Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 46mgSodium 1024mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 24g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ scallops recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its fresh flavors and quick cooking time, it’s bound to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and serving styles, and don’t forget to savor the deliciousness of every bite! Happy grilling!
