Grilled Scallops Recipe: Tastes Like a $200 Restaurant Meal

You might think those perfectly grilled scallops at high-end restaurants are worth their $200 price tag. However, this grilled scallops recipe brings that same luxurious experience right to your kitchen in just 16 minutes.

In fact, creating restaurant-quality grilled scallops is easier than you might expect. Sea scallops, which are larger and more suitable for grilling than their bay counterparts, need only a few simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and lemon juice to shine. With just 142 calories and 14 grams of protein per serving, these grilled scallops offer both luxury and nutrition.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about grilling scallops, from selecting the right type to achieving that perfect golden-brown sear. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or wanting to elevate your weeknight meals, you’ll discover how to create a gourmet experience that rivals any high-end restaurant.

Essential Tips for Perfect Grilled Scallops Recipe

Selecting the right scallops marks the beginning of your grilling journey. Fresh scallops should have a sweet, ocean-like smell and appear slightly translucent with a pearly white or light tan color. Specifically, look for “dry” scallops rather than “wet” ones, as these haven’t been treated with preservatives and will sear better.

Before grilling, pat your scallops completely dry with paper towels. Additionally, bring them to room temperature about 30 minutes before cooking – this ensures even cooking throughout. While the scallops are coming to temperature, prepare your grill for direct high heat cooking.

A properly heated grill creates that sought-after golden crust while keeping the inside tender. Furthermore, oiling your grill grates prevents sticking and helps achieve perfect grill marks. Brush the scallops lightly with olive oil and season them just before they hit the grill.

Here are the key steps for achieving restaurant-quality results:

• Clean and oil your grill grates thoroughly
• Heat the grill to 400-450°F
• Season scallops just before grilling
• Place scallops on the hottest part of the grill
• Resist the urge to move them until they release naturally

Timing plays a crucial role in perfectly grilled scallops. Generally, large sea scallops need about 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the grill – forcing them to turn too early will tear the flesh and ruin that perfect sear.

Watch for visual cues as your scallops cook. The sides will begin to turn opaque from the bottom up. Once you flip them, they should have a golden-brown crust. The center should remain slightly translucent when done – this indicates they’re perfectly cooked and will remain tender rather than rubbery.

A common mistake is overcooking out of fear of serving undercooked seafood. Remember that scallops continue cooking slightly after you remove them from the heat. Take them off the grill when the center is still slightly translucent, and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Read also: Air Fryer Scallops Recipe

How to Grill Scallops: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mastering scallop grilling requires understanding what not to do. Primarily, avoid the temptation to constantly flip your scallops – this prevents proper sear formation and can lead to uneven cooking.

Another critical mistake is skipping the pre-grill preparation. Consequently, many home cooks place cold scallops straight from the refrigerator onto the grill. This causes uneven cooking and potentially tough, rubbery results.

Here are the top mistakes to steer clear of when grilling scallops:

• Using wet-packed scallops without properly drying them
• Seasoning too far in advance, which draws out moisture
• Placing scallops on a grill that isn’t hot enough
• Moving scallops too soon before they’ve developed a proper sear
• Overcrowding the grill, which reduces heat distribution
• Relying on timing alone instead of visual cues

Notably, seasoning timing plays a crucial role in successful grilling. Season your scallops just moments before they hit the grill. Otherwise, salt draws out moisture, making it harder to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Essentially, temperature control makes or breaks your grilled scallops. A common error involves placing scallops on a grill that hasn’t reached the proper temperature. This leads to sticking and prevents the formation of those coveted grill marks.

Overcrowding stands as another frequent mistake. Each scallop needs space around it for proper heat circulation. When scallops are too close together, they steam instead of sear, robbing you of that restaurant-quality finish.

Pay attention to visual cues instead of solely relying on cooking times. The edges should turn slightly opaque while the center remains translucent. Overlooking these signs often results in overcooked, tough scallops.

Read also: Smoked Scallops Recipe

Remember that proper tools matter. Using dull tongs or the wrong spatula can tear your scallops. Choose tools that allow gentle handling while maintaining good control during flipping.

Best Equipment for Grilling Scallops

Proper equipment makes a significant difference in achieving restaurant-quality grilled scallops. A high-quality grill with precise temperature control stands as your foundation for success. Gas grills offer consistent heat and easy temperature adjustment, particularly beneficial for delicate seafood like scallops.

For optimal grilling results, your equipment arsenal should include:

• A sturdy stainless steel grill basket with small holes
• Wide-headed stainless steel spatula with thin edge
• Reliable instant-read thermometer
• Heavy-duty grill brush for cleaning
• Heat-resistant silicone basting brush
• Long-handled tongs with good grip

The grill basket deserves special attention as it prevents smaller scallops from falling through the grates. Moreover, a basket with proper spacing allows heat circulation while keeping your seafood secure. Look for one with a non-stick coating and sturdy handle for easy flipping.

Temperature control equipment proves invaluable for consistent results. A quality instant-read thermometer helps monitor both grill surface temperature and internal scallop temperature. Primarily, seek out models with quick response times and clear digital displays.

Your spatula choice can make or break the grilling process. A wide-headed spatula with a beveled edge slides smoothly under scallops without breaking their delicate surface. Subsequently, this helps maintain that perfect sear you’re aiming for.

Cleaning tools protect your investment and ensure consistently great results. A sturdy grill brush with brass or stainless steel bristles keeps your grates clean without damaging them. Particularly important is cleaning between each use to prevent flavors from transferring and maintain proper heat distribution.

Consider investing in a cast-iron griddle plate as an alternative grilling surface. This addition provides even heat distribution and prevents smaller scallops from falling through, particularly useful when grilling different-sized pieces.

For basting and oil application, a silicone brush offers better control than traditional bristle brushes. These tools withstand high heat and don’t shed bristles onto your food. Look for ones with long handles to keep your hands safely away from the heat.

Quality tongs complete your toolkit, offering precise control when placing and flipping scallops. Choose a pair with scalloped edges for better grip and spring-loaded handles for comfortable use throughout your grilling session.

Grilled Scallops Recipe

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• Author: Maya Marin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Bring the taste of luxury seafood dining home with this simple yet elegant grilled scallops recipe. This dish combines buttery sea scallops with bright citrus notes and subtle garlic flavors, creating a restaurant-worthy meal in your backyard.

This recipe transforms fresh sea scallops into a delectable grilled masterpiece with golden-brown sear marks and a tender, juicy center. The preparation emphasizes the scallops’ natural sweetness while adding subtle layers of flavor through simple seasonings and careful grilling techniques.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound dry sea scallops (about 16 medium)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 medium lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the scallops by removing the side muscle and patting them completely dry with paper towels.
2. Heat your grill to medium-high heat (450°F to 550°F). Meanwhile, combine 2 tablespoons each of olive oil and melted butter in a small bowl.
3. Brush the scallops with the oil-butter mixture on both sides, afterward season with salt and pepper.
4. Place scallops on the preheated grill and cook undisturbed for 3 minutes on the first side.
5. Simultaneously, mix the remaining butter with grated garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl.
6. Flip the scallops and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until they’re just opaque in the center.

Equipment

Propane Gas Grill

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Digital Candy Thermometer

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Grill Brush

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Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• For outdoor grilling, thread scallops onto skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates
• Scallops should be opaque and firm but still slightly translucent in the center when done
• Avoid marinating longer than 2 hours as acid from lemon juice can start cooking the scallops

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Seafood
• Method: Grilling

Perfect Side Dishes for Grilled Scallops

Side dishes can elevate your grilled scallops from excellent to extraordinary. The right accompaniments complement the delicate sweetness of scallops without overpowering their natural flavor.

Light, fresh salads make perfect partners for grilled scallops. A crisp arugula salad with shaved parmesan and lemon vinaigrette adds peppery notes that enhance the scallops’ sweetness. Coupled with this, a cucumber and avocado salad brings refreshing coolness to balance the smoky char from the grill.

Grains and starches serve as excellent foundations for your grilled scallops. Accordingly, consider these refined accompaniments:

• Lemon herb risotto with fresh herbs
• Garlic butter angel hair pasta
• Roasted fingerling potatoes with fresh dill
• Wild rice pilaf with toasted almonds
• Grilled asparagus with olive oil
• Sautéed spinach with garlic
• Roasted cherry tomatoes with herbs

Analogous to fine dining establishments, your grilled scallops shine when paired with roasted vegetables. Grilled corn on the cob brushed with herb butter creates a sweet contrast, analogous to the natural sweetness of the scallops. Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze offer a rich, caramelized flavor that doesn’t compete with your seafood centerpiece.

For a light summer meal, consider serving your scallops atop a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette. This combination keeps the focus on the scallops while adding fresh, bright flavors to your plate.

Sauces can transform your side dishes into memorable accompaniments. A light white wine sauce or lemon butter sauce drizzled over both scallops and sides creates cohesion in your dish. Nevertheless, remember that less is more – your sides should enhance rather than mask the scallops’ delicate flavor profile.

Textural contrast plays a vital role in side dish selection. Crispy roasted root vegetables or al dente green beans provide a pleasant textural variation against the tender scallops. In conjunction with these, creamy polenta or smooth cauliflower puree offers yet another dimension to your dining experience.

Wine Pairing with Grilled Scallops

The perfect wine pairing enhances your grilled scallops’ delicate sweetness and subtle smoky notes. White wines with crisp acidity and mineral notes create an ideal match for these succulent seafood morsels.

Chardonnay stands out as a classic companion, primarily unoaked versions from Chablis or Burgundy. These wines offer bright citrus notes and mineral undertones that complement the natural sweetness of your grilled scallops without overpowering them.

For those who prefer lighter options, Pinot Grigio from northern Italy brings refreshing acidity and subtle stone fruit flavors. Similarly, a Spanish Albariño offers bright citrus notes and a mineral finish that pairs beautifully with seafood.

Here are exceptional wine choices for your grilled scallops:

• Chablis: Clean mineral notes and citrus undertones
• Sancerre: Crisp, with subtle grassiness and lime zest
• Muscadet: Light body with saline minerality
• Vermentino: Fresh with hints of Mediterranean herbs
• Champagne: Especially blanc de blancs style

Serve these wines properly chilled between 45-50°F to maximize their refreshing qualities. The cooler temperature accentuates the wines’ crispness while harmonizing with the scallops’ delicate texture.

French white Burgundy offers another sophisticated pairing option. These wines deliver subtle oak influences that echo the light char from your grilled scallops. The wine’s buttery notes complement any butter-based sauces you might serve alongside.

Consider the preparation method when selecting your wine. Scallops finished with citrus call for wines with pronounced acidity, such as Verdicchio or Gavi. For herb-seasoned scallops, reach for an aromatic Grüner Veltliner from Austria.

Rosé wines, especially those from Provence, offer an alternative pairing choice. Their subtle berry notes and bright acidity provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, caramelized exterior of perfectly grilled scallops.

Avoid heavy red wines or heavily oaked whites, as these can overwhelm the scallops’ delicate flavors. Instead, focus on wines that enhance rather than compete with your carefully prepared seafood.

For special occasions, vintage Champagne or premium Cava adds elegance to your meal. These sparkling wines cleanse the palate between bites while adding a celebratory touch to your dining experience.

Read also: Crispy Fried Scallops Recipe

Health Benefits of Grilled Scallops

Beyond their delectable taste, grilled scallops pack a powerful nutritional punch. These seafood delicacies offer an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and proteins that support your overall health.

Protein content stands as one of the most significant benefits of grilled scallops. A 3-ounce serving delivers 20 grams of high-quality protein, making them an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and growth. Unlike many other protein sources, scallops contain minimal fat, offering a lean option for health-conscious diners.

Omega-3 fatty acids found in scallops support heart and brain function. These essential fats help reduce inflammation throughout your body and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Furthermore, scallops provide vitamin B12, which aids in red blood cell formation and neurological function.

Key nutrients in grilled scallops include:

• Selenium – supports immune system function
• Zinc – aids in wound healing and immune response
• Magnesium – promotes bone health and energy production
• Potassium – regulates blood pressure
• Iron – essential for oxygen transport

Grilled scallops also contain trace minerals that play vital roles in various bodily functions. For instance, iodine supports thyroid function, whereas phosphorus contributes to bone strength and cell repair.

The grilling method itself offers additional health advantages. This cooking technique requires minimal added fats, preserving the natural nutritional profile of scallops. Through grilling, you retain more nutrients compared to other cooking methods that might require heavy oils or butter.

Antioxidants present in scallops help protect your cells from damage. These compounds, along with the protein content, support tissue repair and maintenance. Plus, the low caloric content – approximately 94 calories per 3-ounce serving – makes them an ideal choice for weight-conscious individuals.

Regular consumption of grilled scallops as part of a balanced diet may contribute to improved cardiovascular health. The combination of lean protein and heart-healthy fats supports healthy blood pressure levels and arterial function.

For athletes and active individuals, scallops provide an excellent source of easily digestible protein without excess calories. Their amino acid profile supports muscle recovery after exercise, making them an ideal post-workout meal option.

Consider incorporating grilled scallops into your meal rotation twice weekly to maximize their health benefits. This frequency allows you to reap their nutritional advantages while maintaining dietary variety.

References:
– WebMD
– Oh My Facts

Nutritional Information of Grilled Scallops

Understanding the nutritional profile of grilled scallops helps you make informed dietary choices. A standard 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of grilled scallops provides a complete nutritional breakdown that fits well into various dietary plans.

Here’s a detailed nutritional breakdown per 3.5-ounce serving of grilled scallops:

From a macronutrient perspective, grilled scallops stand out as an excellent protein source while maintaining minimal fat content. Their protein composition includes all essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source for muscle maintenance and growth.

Looking at micronutrients, grilled scallops provide significant amounts of daily recommended values:

• Vitamin B12: 18% of daily value
• Selenium: 33% of daily value
• Zinc: 18% of daily value
• Iron: 15% of daily value

The caloric efficiency of grilled scallops makes them an excellent choice for weight management programs. With just 94 calories per serving, they deliver substantial protein without excess energy intake. This protein-to-calorie ratio supports satiety and helps maintain lean muscle mass.

Regarding fat content, grilled scallops contain primarily healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. The cooking method significantly influences the final fat content – grilling requires minimal added fats compared to frying or sautéing, preserving their naturally lean profile.

Mineral content deserves special attention. The high selenium content supports thyroid function and acts as an antioxidant. Zinc contributes to immune system strength, while iron supports oxygen transport throughout your body.

For those monitoring sodium intake, it’s worth noting that fresh scallops naturally contain sodium, which can vary based on their marine environment. The grilling process itself doesn’t add sodium unless seasoned, giving you control over your final sodium consumption.

Carbohydrate-conscious diners will appreciate that grilled scallops contain minimal carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets. Their glycemic impact remains negligible, supporting stable blood sugar levels.

The vitamin profile of grilled scallops includes trace amounts of fat-soluble vitamins A and E, though their B-vitamin content proves more significant. These water-soluble vitamins play crucial roles in energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Portion size considerations affect total nutritional intake. A typical restaurant serving often provides 4-5 ounces, increasing the nutritional values proportionally. Home cooks can adjust portions based on individual dietary needs while maintaining the nutrient density that makes scallops a healthful choice.

References:
– Healthline
– Snapcalorie

Conclusion

Grilled scallops stand as proof that luxury seafood dishes don’t require a restaurant setting or hefty price tag. Armed with the right techniques, equipment, and fresh ingredients, you’ll create restaurant-worthy scallops right in your backyard.

Success lies in attention to detail – selecting dry scallops, maintaining proper grill temperature, and watching those crucial visual cues during cooking. These seemingly small steps make the difference between ordinary grilled seafood and extraordinary culinary achievement.

Beyond their impressive taste, these protein-rich delicacies offer substantial nutritional benefits while remaining low in calories. Paired with crisp white wine and thoughtfully chosen side dishes, your grilled scallops will transform any meal into a special occasion.

Remember that perfect grilled scallops come from practice and patience. Start with quality ingredients, follow the techniques outlined here, and soon you’ll master this elegant dish that rivals any $200 restaurant plate.