Before we dive into the delicious details of BBQ scallops, let’s consider what will complement this dish perfectly. Think about pairing these succulent scallops with a light salad. A zesty arugula salad, for example, can add a peppery bite.
A simple pasta salad tossed in a homemade vinaigrette can also elevate the experience. For a heartier option, you might serve it alongside grilled vegetables. Garlic bread adds an appealing crunch and enhances the meal, making it even more memorable.
These pairings don’t just complete your plate; they offer a symphony of tastes that enhance the overall dining experience. So, let’s explore BBQ scallops, a dish that is as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat.
What Are BBQ Scallops?
BBQ scallops are a delightful seafood dish made from fresh sea scallops that are typically seasoned and grilled. Scallops are known for their sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. When cooked on a grill, they take on a lovely char that enhances their natural sweetness.
This dish usually involves skewering the scallops, seasoning them, and then grilling them for a few minutes until they’re just opaque, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance.
What’s great about BBQ scallops is their versatility. You can enjoy them as an appetizer, a light main course, or even as part of a seafood platter. Plus, they cook quickly, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time mingling with your guests.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of BBQ scallops is quite fascinating. When perfectly grilled, they offer a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with smoky, grilled notes. The combination of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the natural taste of the scallops.
Adding a hint of lemon juice or garlic magnifies the freshness and adds a zest that sparks the palate.
If you choose to marinate or season your scallops, you can introduce various flavors—from sweet honey or maple syrup to spicy chili or zesty herbs. This versatility makes BBQ scallops appealing to different taste preferences.
Why You’ll Love This
Here are a few reasons you’re going to absolutely love BBQ scallops:
- Quick Cooking Time: Grilling scallops takes only about 6-8 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Impressive Presentation: Skewered scallops look stunning on a plate, making it easy to wow guests with your cooking skills.
- Health Benefits: Scallops are low in calories and high in protein, providing a nutritious seafood option.
- Flavorful Customization: You can easily adjust seasonings and marinades to suit your tastes or experiment with different styles.
- Perfect for Occasions: Whether it’s a casual backyard gathering or an elegant dinner party, BBQ scallops fit right in.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create BBQ scallops that impress:
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 1 clove of garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup
- 1 pound of fresh sea scallops (thawed if previously frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk it together until well blended. This mixture will enhance the scallops’ natural flavor while adding a subtle sweetness.
Step 2: Marinate the Scallops
Gently add the scallops to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the scallops. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the scallops marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ideally, you want a surface temperature of around 400°F. If you have a grilling basket or perforated pan, that can be helpful for smaller seafood.
Step 4: Skewer the Scallops
After marinating, carefully thread the scallops onto the skewers. If you like, you can alternate with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchinis for extra flavor and color. Just don’t overcrowd the skewers; give each scallop enough space for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Scallops
Place the skewered scallops on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that slight caramelization—it’s a sign they’re done when they turn opaque and reach a slightly golden brown.
Step 6: Serve the Scallops
Once grilled, remove the scallops from the grill. Serve them immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. These little beauties are best enjoyed fresh!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some additional tips to perfect your BBQ scallops:
- Freshness is Key: Look for fresh, dry scallops. Avoid wet scallops, which are stored in a brine and can lead to a watery texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the scallops. Overcooking can make them tough, so when they’re just opaque, they’re ready.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in your favorite spices—think smoked paprika, Old Bay, or even Italian herbs.
- Use a Grill Mat: If you’re worried about your scallops falling through the grill grates, consider using a grill mat to keep them secure.
- Pairing Choices: Try serving your BBQ scallops with a zesty dipping sauce like a light lemon aioli or chimichurri for additional flavor.
How Can You Store BBQ Scallops?
If you have leftover BBQ scallops, here’s how to store them:
- Cool Quickly: Allow the scallops to cool to room temperature.
- Airtight Container: Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for best quality.
- Reheating: For reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid further cooking.
Substitute Ingredients
If you find yourself lacking some of the ingredients, here are alternative choices:
- Lemon Juice: If you don’t have fresh lemons, apple cider vinegar can provide a tangy flavor, albeit with a different profile.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Any liquid sweetener like agave syrup or even brown sugar can work well in the marinade.
- Olive Oil: If you’re out of olive oil, consider avocado oil or canola oil in its place; both have a great flavor and a high smoke point for grilling.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply craving a taste of the sea, BBQ scallops deliver a delightful experience. The combination of easy preparation, robust flavor, and health benefits makes them a perfect choice for any occasion.
Tailor the dish to your taste with available ingredients or pairings.
Overall, you’re not only serving scallops but also offering a memorable dining experience. So fire up that grill, get your ingredients ready, and treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly delicious. Happy grilling!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
BBQ Scallops Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Description
Summer is here, and that means BBQ season! While burgers and hot dogs have their charm, let’s talk about something a little fancier yet incredibly easy—BBQ scallops. Picture this: you’re outside on a warm evening, the grill is sizzling, and you’re enjoying the fresh ocean breeze.
The sweet and smoky flavor of BBQ scallops fills the air, making everything feel just right. Easy to cook, these scallops are not only visually stunning but can also impress your guests.
Getting to know BBQ scallops is about more than just how to cook them. It’s a journey into flavor, simplicity, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll be a staple at your summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
-
Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk it together until well blended. This mixture will enhance the scallops' natural flavor while adding a subtle sweetness.
Step 2: Marinate the Scallops
-
Gently add the scallops to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the scallops. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
-
While the scallops marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ideally, you want a surface temperature of around 400°F. If you have a grilling basket or perforated pan, that can be helpful for smaller seafood.
Step 4: Skewer the Scallops
-
After marinating, carefully thread the scallops onto the skewers. If you like, you can alternate with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchinis for extra flavor and color. Just don’t overcrowd the skewers; give each scallop enough space for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Scallops
-
Place the skewered scallops on the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for that slight caramelization—it's a sign they’re done when they turn opaque and reach a slightly golden brown.
Step 6: Serve the Scallops
-
Once grilled, remove the scallops from the grill. Serve them immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. These little beauties are best enjoyed fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 137kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5.6g9%
- Saturated Fat 1.3g7%
- Cholesterol 286mg96%
- Sodium 109mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 19g38%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Freshness is Key: Look for fresh, dry scallops. Avoid wet scallops, which are stored in a brine and can lead to a watery texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the scallops. Overcooking can make them tough, so when they’re just opaque, they're ready.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in your favorite spices—think smoked paprika, Old Bay, or even Italian herbs.
- Use a Grill Mat: If you're worried about your scallops falling through the grill grates, consider using a grill mat to keep them secure.
- Pairing Choices: Try serving your BBQ scallops with a zesty dipping sauce like a light lemon aioli or chimichurri for additional flavor.
