Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to prepare sea scallops? Look no further! With their tender flesh, delicate flavor, and versatility in cooking methods, sea scallops are a culinary delight that can be enjoyed in many different dishes. From classic seafood preparations like ceviche and chowder, to more modern twists like sushi rolls and tacos, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious sea scallop recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire you to try new flavors and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends with their simplicity, flavor, and presentation.
Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive dish featuring succulent sea scallops, perfectly seared and served with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Add the scallops to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter.
8. Stir in lemon juice and serve the garlic butter sauce over the scallops.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Sea Scallops with Lemon Herb Sauce
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive dish. Pan-seared sea scallops are elevated by a bright and citrusy lemon herb sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse scallops and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Brush both sides of scallops with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and dill in a small bowl.
6. Serve grilled scallops with lemon herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sea Scallop Ceviche with Avocado and Lime
Experience the freshness of the ocean with this vibrant and refreshing ceviche, combining succulent sea scallops with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine the scallops, avocado, lime juice, and cilantro.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is best served chilled and fresh, straight from the refrigerator.
Creamy Sea Scallop Pasta with White Wine Sauce
This decadent pasta dish combines succulent sea scallops with a rich and creamy white wine sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting bed of al dente linguine. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sea scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Pour in white wine and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Reduce sauce by half, then stir in cooked pasta and scallops. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Sea Scallops with Maple Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent recipe that combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of maple glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
4. Place the wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the scallops.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sea Scallop Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
This creamy risotto dish is a perfect showcase for the tender sweetness of sea scallops, paired with the brightness of fresh peas and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups water or seafood broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 large sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more.
5. When rice is cooked, add scallops and peas. Cook until scallops are opaque and peas are tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sea Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the combination of tender sea scallops and sweet mango salsa in a flavorful taco.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add scallops and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled scallops, Mango Salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sea Scallop Chowder with Corn and Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the tender sweetness of sea scallops with the natural sweetness of corn and potatoes. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add scallops, corn, potatoes, clam juice, and heavy cream.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sea Scallop Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Soy Sauce
Sea Scallop Stir-Fry with Vegetables and Soy Sauce: A flavorful and quick-cooking recipe that showcases the tender sweetness of sea scallops paired with colorful vegetables and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and broccoli; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add scallops; cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Stir in soy sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sea Scallop Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Sea Scallop Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread scallops, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper slices onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the kebabs, making sure all seafood is coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until scallops are opaque and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh pineapple and bell peppers for the best flavor.
– Don’t overcrowd the skewers – leave a little space between each piece.
– Serve with your favorite sides, like quinoa or grilled asparagus!
Sea Scallop Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines succulent sea scallops with a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice and honey to create the citrus vinaigrette.
5. Slice grilled scallops into thin strips and add to salad; drizzle with citrus vinaigrette.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sea Scallop Linguine with Garlic and Chili Flakes
A flavorful and spicy seafood dish that combines the sweetness of sea scallops with the heat of chili flakes, all wrapped up in a garlicky linguine.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sea scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and cooked through.
4. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked linguine with scallop mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sea Scallop Sushi Rolls with Spicy Mayo
Experience the delight of sea scallops wrapped in sushi rice and nori seaweed, topped with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 1/2 sheet nori seaweed
– Spicy Mayo:
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the sea scallops into thin slices.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange 2-3 sea scallop slices in the middle of the rice.
5. Fold the bottom half of the seaweed up over the filling, then roll the sushi into a compact cylinder.
6. Repeat for remaining ingredients.
7. Prepare the Spicy Mayo by mixing mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
8. Serve the sushi rolls with Spicy Mayo on top, garnished with optional sesame seeds, green onions, or pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (excluding preparation time)
Sea Scallop Gratin with Gruyère Cheese
Sea Scallop Gratin with Gruyère Cheese Recipe
This rich and creamy gratin is a perfect dish for special occasions or cozy nights in. The sweetness of the scallops pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re browned on both sides.
4. Remove skillet from heat and stir in white wine, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sea Scallop Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
A twist on the classic Louisiana sandwich, this Sea Scallop Po’ Boy brings together tender scallops, crispy bread, and a tangy remoulade sauce for a flavor-packed treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 sea scallops
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– Remoulade sauce (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and/or other toppings of your choice
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Dredge scallops in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Pan-fry scallops in melted butter until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
3. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried scallops on bread, followed by lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce.
4. Cook time: approximately 10-12 minutes (includes prep and cooking).
Sea Scallop and Shrimp Scampi
A seafood lover’s delight! This recipe combines succulent sea scallops and shrimp with garlic, lemon, and parsley for a flavorful and refreshing dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 large sea scallops
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops and shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re opaque and firm to the touch.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re pink and fully cooked.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the seafood, then add the white wine (if using) and stir to combine.
6. Return the scallops to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sea Scallop Curry with Coconut Milk
Sea Scallop Curry with Coconut Milk: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent sea scallops with the richness of coconut milk and a blend of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops; cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Return scallops to the skillet; cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Sea Scallop Sliders with Aioli and Arugula
Elevate your slider game with succulent sea scallops, creamy aioli, and peppery arugula. These bite-sized beauties are perfect for a quick dinner or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 1/4 cup aioli (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 4 hamburger buns, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by spreading aioli on toasted buns, topping with grilled scallops, and finishing with arugula.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sea Scallop and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender sea scallops and earthy mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich risotto.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process until all broth is used.
6. In a separate skillet, sear the sea scallops with butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Add the mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until tender.
8. Combine the cooked risotto and mushroom-scallop mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sea Scallop Carpaccio with Truffle Oil
This elegant appetizer showcases the delicate flavor of sea scallops, elevated by the richness of truffle oil. Thinly sliced and served raw, the scallops are a perfect canvas for the earthy essence of truffles.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sea scallops
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Slice each scallop into thin strips, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
3. Place the scallop slices on a large plate or platter.
4. Drizzle truffle oil evenly over the scallops.
5. Top the scallops with sliced red onion and arugula leaves.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: None (serves raw)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the sea with these 20 delicious sea scallop recipes! From classic dishes like pan-seared scallops with garlic butter and creamy pasta with white wine sauce, to innovative creations like seafood tacos with mango salsa and sea scallop sushi rolls with spicy mayo. There’s something for every taste and occasion. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure and discover the versatility of this beloved seafood ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to impress.
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