The Best Grilled Scallops Ever
Delicately grilled scallops with a smoky char, perfect for any occasion.
A Delicious Choice for Seafood Lovers
Grilled scallops are an elegant yet simple dish that brings a taste of the ocean to your table. The delicate sweetness of large sea scallops combined with a smoky char from the grill makes for a delightful meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat. I first tried grilling scallops during a summer cookout, and they quickly became a favorite in my home. The process is easy, and the results are always impressive. If you’re looking to impress your guests at your next gathering, this grilled scallop recipe will do just that! You may also find Turkey bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich useful.
Reasons to Try It
The appeal of grilled scallops lies not only in their flavor but also in their versatility. They cook quickly, making them a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a fancy addition to a dinner party. Scallops are naturally low in calories while being high in protein, making this dish both a healthy and satisfying choice.
This dish also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, whether it be a refreshing salad or a rich pasta dish. For something sweet to round out your meal, you might even consider trying some air fryer grilled peaches for dessert!
The Cooking Process Explained
Here’s a concise overview to set expectations: Preparing grilled scallops takes just a bit of time and a few simple steps. You’ll thread the scallops onto skewers, season them well, and grill them to perfection, resulting in a dish that beautifully highlights their natural flavor.
Key Ingredients
To prepare this dish, gather the following items:
- Oil, for grill and drizzling
- 12 large sea scallops
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sumac
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 1 lime, halved
- Fresh lime zest, for serving
Each ingredient plays a critical role in delivering that fresh, vibrant taste, especially the sumac and coriander, which enhance the scallops’ natural sweetness.
Directions to Follow
- Heat your grill to medium-high.
- Pat the scallops dry and thread 3 scallops onto 2 parallel skewers. Continue with the remaining scallops and additional skewers.
- Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
- Give the scallops another quick dry if needed. Season them with ground sumac, coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Grill the scallops until they are opaque throughout, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- For extra flavor, grill lime halves with their cut sides down until charred, about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the grilled scallops to a platter, grate fresh lime zest on top, and drizzle with oil. Serve alongside the charred lime.
01Ingredients
Main Ingredients
02Method
- Preparation
- Grilling
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0 OF 7 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Make sure to pat the scallops dry before grilling to achieve a good sear. If you don't have skewers, grill them directly on the grill or use a grill basket.
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Serving Suggestions
To make your presentation stand out, consider arranging the scallops beautifully on a plate with the grilled lime halves. You can serve them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or perhaps a garlic butter rice. The bright flavors of the lime will elevate the entire dish, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently to prevent them from becoming tough. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold in a seafood salad—delicious and easy!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add spices like smoked paprika for a different flavor kick or experiment with citrus zests beyond lime. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving can also elevate the dish beautifully.
FAQs
How do you choose the best scallops?
Look for scallops that are creamy white or slightly pink. Fresh ones should smell like the sea—pleasant and not fishy.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained before grilling.
How do I know when scallops are done?
They should be opaque throughout and firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on the timing!
Conclusion
Grilled scallops are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a simple dish that can be made at home. Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner or hosting a gathering, they’re sure to impress. For more ideas, check out Grilled Scallops | The Modern Proper and my Grilled Udon. Happy grilling!
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
Crockpot & Slow Cooker
