Grilled Scallops – Simple, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed

Grilled Scallops are the epitome of culinary elegance, combining the delicate sweetness of the sea with the smoky char of the grill. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the scallops, enhanced by a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a summer barbecue or an intimate dinner, these scallops are quick to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This grilled scallops recipe is beloved for its incredible flavor and ease of cooking. The scallops are seared to perfection on the grill, creating a delightful crust while maintaining a tender, buttery interior. It fits well into a low-carb or paleo diet, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Plus, the simplicity of the marinade keeps the focus on the scallops themselves, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Tips and Tricks

• Choose Fresh Scallops: Always opt for fresh, dry-packed scallops rather than wet or frozen ones for the best flavor and texture.
• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to high heat. A hot grill helps create the perfect sear and prevents sticking.
• Use Soaked Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave space between the scallops to ensure even cooking and a good char.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Scallops cook quickly; a mere 2-3 minutes per side is usually sufficient. Overcooked scallops become rubbery.
• Skipping the Marinade: While scallops are flavorful on their own, a quick marinade adds depth and enhances their natural sweetness.
• Inadequate Grill Temperature: If the grill isn’t hot enough, the scallops will stick and won’t develop a nice crust.

Make Ahead Tips

For those busy weeknights or prepping for a dinner party, you can marinate the scallops up to 2 hours in advance. Simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. However, it’s best to grill them fresh for optimal texture. If you have leftover grilled scallops, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in the marinade, such as dill, cilantro, or basil, to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Alternate Cooking Methods: If grilling isn’t an option, try pan-searing them in a cast iron skillet or broiling them in the oven.

How to Serve

To serve your grilled scallops, arrange them on a beautiful platter, drizzling with the remaining marinade for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with finely chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest to add brightness. Pair them with a crisp green salad or light pasta for a delightful meal.

Pairing Suggestions

For a perfect drink pairing, serve your grilled scallops with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy cocktail like a gin and tonic. Complement with sides like grilled asparagus or a light couscous salad, and finish with a lemon sorbet for dessert.

How to Store

Leftover grilled scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze them, do so in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their best quality for about 2 months. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook.

Equipment Needed

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Skewers (if grilling skewered scallops)
• Tongs
• Bowl for marinating

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free. For a vegan alternative, consider using grilled vegetable skewers marinated in a similar mixture of olive oil and herbs.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, fresh herbs like basil and parsley shine in this recipe. In winter, consider using dried herbs if fresh ones are hard to come by. You can also pair the scallops with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Cost Breakdown

The estimated cost for this grilled scallops recipe is approximately $12-$15 for four servings, depending on the price of scallops in your area. For a budget-friendly option, consider swapping scallops for shrimp or fish.

Kitchen Hacks

• Easy Zesting: Use a microplane to quickly zest your lemon without the bitter pith.
• Quick Herb Chopping: Use a herb scissors to chop fresh herbs in seconds.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.
• What can I substitute for lemon juice? Lime juice or white wine vinegar can work as alternatives.
• How do I know when scallops are done? They should be opaque and firm to the touch but still tender.

How To Make grilled scallops recipe

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Yield: 4

Grilled Scallops

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Grilled Scallops are the epitome of culinary elegance, combining the delicate sweetness of the sea with the smoky char of the grill.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes

Total Time 36 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh scallops
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the scallops to the marinade and toss to coat. Let them marinate for 15-30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to high heat.
4. If using skewers, thread the scallops onto them, leaving a little space between each scallop.
5. Grill the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and opaque.
6. Remove scallops from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 224Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 46mgSodium 1288mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 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.

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Final Thoughts

Making grilled scallops is a straightforward yet rewarding cooking experience that brings the taste of the ocean right to your table. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels luxurious and special. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these scallops are sure to impress. Happy grilling!