Scallops have a magical way of turning any meal into an extraordinary experience, don’t they? This time, I’m excited to share a mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Scallops with Garlic Butter, perfect for seafood lovers and anyone looking to elevate their culinary game. This recipe, inspired by a classic dish from my neighbor Betty, is a simple yet elegant addition to your collection of Seafood Dish Recipes. It’s ideal for impressing guests or adding a gourmet touch to your everyday dinners.
Grilled scallops are a delightfully versatile option. Pair them with a crisp garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette, serve them over buttery linguine, or complement them with warm, crusty bread for soaking up every drop of garlic butter goodness. No matter how you plate them, these scallops are bound to shine.
Grilled Scallops with Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 30 g salted butter
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves puréed or finely chopped or grated
- 200 ml white wine
- Salt and pepper
For the grilled scallops
- Vegetable oil
- 12 scallops ideally stuck to their shell
- Dill leaves for serving (optional)
Instructions
For the sauce
-
-
Preheat a pan over medium heat. You can even do this over the grill if your pan can handle straight heat.
-
Add the butter, lemon zest, garlic and mix for one minute.
-
Add the white wine (be careful, it can splatter) all at once.
- Stir constantly until the white wine has evaporated completely. You will notice it has evaporated because you won’t see any liquid under the butter, and also the butter will start to sizzle again.
-
For the grilled scallops
-
-
Prep your scallops: rinse them well under running water to remove any sand that could be still there. I also remove the coral because I enjoy them more that way, but it’s optional. Try to keep the scallop meat attached to the shell.
-
Preheat you bbq grill to high heat (make sure to clean it beforehand). You can also use a grill-type pan, also nicely preheated. This is important because scallops only take a minute to cook and we need them to become golden in that short period of time.
-
Use a brush (ideally silicone) to paint a bit of vegetable oil on the grill. Some oil will drop onto the heat source which could cause a flame to shoot up, it’s normal.
-
Place the scallops upside down onto the grill (shell on top, scallop touching the grill). Cook them without moving them around for 1 minute.
-
Use a thin metal spatula to flip them. You want to insert the spatula in a swift move in case a bit of them got stuck. Flip them so that the scallop is now on top. Add a tablespoon of the sauce to each scallop (the sauce should be hot) and cook on this side for an extra minute.
- Serve immediately with dill leaves.
-
Variations & Tips
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a hint of heat.
- Herb swaps: Substitute parsley with fresh dill, chives, or basil for a unique flavor twist.
- Cheesy upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese over the scallops before grilling for an extra layer of indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled scallops are as versatile as they are delicious. Serve them:
- Over a bed of creamy risotto for a comforting and elegant dish.
- Alongside grilled asparagus or zucchini for a fresh, summery vibe.
- On top of a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light, sophisticated meal.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store the grilled scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter and cook until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Why Choose Scallops?
Scallops are not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to your diet. They’re high in protein, low in fat, and rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids. This makes them a fantastic choice for anyone seeking healthy and flavorful Seafood Dish Recipes.
So go ahead, fire up the grill, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delectable Grilled Scallops with Garlic Butter. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy!