When it comes to gourmet dining, few things are as delightful as scallops. These tender, sweet morsels of seafood have a way of elevating any meal, making them perfect for special occasions. I created this post because I know how challenging it can be to find scallop dinner recipes that are both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or planning a cozy date night at home, having a few standout recipes on hand can make all the difference.
If you’re someone who loves to impress with gourmet seafood dishes but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, you’re in the right place. This collection of scallop dinner recipes is designed for home cooks like you who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing flavor. You’ll discover a variety of easy scallop recipes that are sure to wow your guests and satisfy your cravings.
In this post, you’ll find ten mouthwatering scallop dinner recipes that balance elegance and ease. From the buttery richness of seared scallops to the refreshing zing of scallop ceviche, each dish promises to deliver a memorable dining experience. You won’t just get recipes; you’ll also uncover quick dinner ideas perfect for any occasion, ensuring you can enjoy a gourmet meal without the hassle. Get ready to dive into the world of scallops and transform your dinner table into a culinary celebration.
Let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 scallop dinner recipes that blend elegance with simplicity for any occasion.
– Each recipe is designed to be easy and quick, perfect for weeknight dinners or special celebrations.
– Learn how to prepare gourmet dishes like seared scallops and creamy garlic scallops pasta.
– Impress your guests with unique offerings like scallops wrapped in bacon and scallop tacos with mango salsa.
– Enjoy a variety of flavors, from refreshing ceviche to rich coconut curry, catering to all palates.
1. Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Start with thick, sweet scallops that sizzle in a hot pan. The crust forms quickly and adds texture you can feel.
Bright lemon teams with butter to lift the delicate flavor. You get a dish that feels fancy yet easy enough for weeknights and date nights alike.
These bites come together fast, so you can focus on the moment just as much as the meal. A simple arugula salad on the side completes the plate without crowding the flavors.
Ingredients:
10 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
4. Remove scallops and let them rest.
5. In the same pan, add butter and lemon juice, whisking until melted.
6. Serve scallops drizzled with sauce and garnish with parsley.
FAQs:
Can I use dry white wine instead of water in the sauce?
Yes, a splash of dry wine adds a lift without overpowering the lemon.
Can I make this without butter?
Butter creates the gloss and flavor, but you can use a light olive oil finish if needed.
What should I serve with this?
A simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables pairs nicely.
Fun fact: Seared scallops form a perfect crust in about 2 minutes per side, so weeknight dinners feel fancy without the fuss. A quick lemon-butter drizzle lifts sweetness, turning scallop dinner recipes into a date-night win at home.
Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
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Silky risotto makes a warm stage for scallops. The grains drink up broth and stay creamy, not gluey.
Peas add bright color and a pop of sweetness, while mint brings a fresh finish. This dish feels special but stays approachable for home cooks.
With careful stirring, the rice releases its starch for a luxurious texture. A quick finish with butter keeps the finish glossy and rich.
Ingredients:
1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups vegetable stock
1/2 cup white wine
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 shallot, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pot, heat the stock and keep it warm.
2. In a separate pan, sauté shallots in olive oil until translucent.
3. Add Arborio rice, toasting it for a couple of minutes.
4. Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed.
5. Gradually add stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until creamy.
6. Stir in peas and butter towards the end, seasoning to taste.
7. Top with seared scallops and fresh mint before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, but vegetable stock keeps the dish lighter.
How do I avoid a sticky texture?
Keep stirring and add stock gradually.
What if I don’t have mint?
Try basil or parsley for a different aroma.
Scallop Risotto with Peas and Mint
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Bacon wraps bring smoky warmth to tender scallops. The duo makes a crowd-pleasing bite every time.
The bacon crisps in the oven while the scallops stay juicy inside. It’s simple to pull off and feels fancy enough for a special night.
These bites shine with a quick bake and a bright sauce or dip on the side. They travel well for gatherings too.
Ingredients:
16 large scallops
8 slices bacon, cut in half
Toothpicks
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each scallop in a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crisp.
5. Serve hot, drizzled with your favorite sauce if desired.
FAQs:
Should I brush the bacon with maple syrup before baking?
Yes, a light glaze adds sweetness and helps caramelize.
Can I use wheat-free bacon or pancetta?
Yes, both work well while changing the flavor.
What’s a good dipping sauce?
Garlic aioli or a tangy mustard sauce pairs nicely.
Fun fact: bacon-wrapped scallops cook in 8–10 minutes and stay juicy—making this bacon-wrapped bite a staple in scallop dinner recipes. Pair with a bright citrus dip and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing bite that travels well.
Scallops Wrapped in Bacon
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Ceviche brings brightness with citrus and fresh produce. Scallops soak in lime until they just hold their texture.
The avocado adds creaminess that balances acidity. This dish feels light, perfect for summer and easy to share.
Chill it well and serve as a refreshing starter or part of a brighter menu.
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh scallops, diced
1/2 cup lime juice
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, diced
1 avocado, diced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine scallops and lime juice in a bowl, letting them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Add onion, tomato, avocado, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix gently and let it sit for another 5 minutes before serving.
4. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on its own.
FAQs:
Is this best served right away?
It tastes best when fresh but can chill for up to 2 hours.
Should I use blood orange lime for a different kick?
Yes, it adds a deeper citrus note.
Can I swap scallops for shrimp?Shrimp works, but cut to bite-sized pieces and adjust time.
Scallop Ceviche with Avocado
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Creamy garlic pasta feels luxurious but stays simple. The flavors stay focused on garlic, cream, and the sweet scallops.
The sauce coats every strand of pasta for a cozy, comforting bite. It’s perfect for date night when you want something tasty without fuss.
Finish with a handful of fresh basil for a touch of green and aroma. Next steps keep you cooking with confidence.
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
1 lb scallops
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add scallops and cook until golden brown on both sides.
4. Stir in cream and Parmesan, letting it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Toss the pasta with the sauce and scallops, season to taste, and garnish with basil.
FAQs:
Can I use skim milk instead of cream?
Skim milk won’t thicken; add a cornstarch slurry to help.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Best eaten fresh, sauce may separate after freezing.
What if I want more bite from garlic?
Add an extra clove or two.
Creamy Garlic Scallops Pasta
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Tacos get a sunny lift with sweet mango and tender scallops. The grill adds a smoky edge you’ll notice in every bite.
The salsa brings brightness and a bit of heat, but not too much. You’ll find these are perfect for a casual dinner or a small get-together.
Soft tortillas cradle the beauty of the scallops and salsa together. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
1 lb scallops
8 small corn tortillas
1 mango, diced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1 jalapeño, diced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In a bowl, mix mango, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm the tortillas and top each with scallops and mango salsa.
5. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
FAQs:
Should I grill on high heat?
Yes, high heat gives a quick sear.
Can I use canned mango?
Use fresh when possible for best texture and sweetness.
What sides pair well?
Rice, beans, or a crisp salad work nicely.
Fun fact: Scallop dinner recipes like scallop tacos with mango salsa shine on weekends—grill-ready in minutes and still tender. A bright mango salsa adds vitamin C, while the smoky grill kiss elevates every bite. Perfect for casual get-togethers.
Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa
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Elegant plating starts with a smooth cauliflower purée. It acts as a soft bed for the scallops and keeps the meal light.
The purée is lush but not heavy, letting the seafood shine. It’s a stylish, low-carb choice for a dinner party.
Timing matters — sear the scallops after purée comes together for a clean finish.
Ingredients:
1 lb scallops
1 head cauliflower, chopped
1/2 cup cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Blend with cream, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Season scallops with salt and pepper, then sear in hot olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Serve scallops over a spoonful of cauliflower purée.
FAQs:
Can I skip the cream for a lighter purée?
Yes, use milk or stock and a bit of butter.
How can I get extra smooth purée?
Blend longer and pulse in a splash more cream.
What herb would brighten the dish?
Chives or thyme add a fresh finish.
Scallops with Cauliflower Purée
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A classic French style that brings garlic, herbs, and white wine to the table. You get brightness with a touch of luxury.
The dish works well for a casual weeknight or a special supper. It stays simple yet feels refined when plated with crusty bread or rice.
Garlic and parsley lift the seafood without hiding its sweetness. You’ll taste a hint of the Mediterranean in every bite.
Ingredients:
1 lb scallops
1/2 cup white wine
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add scallops and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Add white wine and simmer for a few minutes, letting the sauce reduce.
5. Stir in fresh parsley before serving over rice or crusty bread.
FAQs:
Is white wine necessary?
It adds flavor; you can use a splash of broth if you prefer.
Can I skip the bread system on the plate?
Yes, serve with a crisp salad for balance.
What other herb could I use?
Thyme or basil works well.
Scallop Provencal
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A warm coconut curry sauce coats tender scallops for a comforting meal. It feels exotic but is easy to pull off at home.
Ginger and curry powder bring depth while coconut milk smooths the richness. Serve over rice to soak up every drop of sauce.
It’s a great choice for a cozy night in or when you want a bit of spice without fuss.
Ingredients:
1 lb scallops
1 can coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and add ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Stir in curry powder and coconut milk, letting it simmer.
3. Add scallops and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are opaque.
4. Season to taste and serve over rice.
FAQs:
Adjust curry for heat by adding more powder.
Garnish with cilantro for aroma.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Light milk works but has a thinner sauce.
What starch should I serve it with?
Rice or quinoa pairs well.
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10. Scallops and Asparagus Stir-fry
A quick wok fry makes this dish bright and fast. You get crisp-tender asparagus with juicy scallops in a savory glaze.
The colors pop and the aroma draws you in. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for guests.
Keep the heat high to sear rather than steam. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
1 lb scallops
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add asparagus and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Add scallops and cook until they are golden, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use green beans instead of asparagus?
Yes, but texture will change a bit.
What if I don’t have sesame seeds?
Use chopped cashews or almonds for crunch.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Best eaten the same day.
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Scallops are a versatile and luxurious ingredient that can elevate any dining experience.
With these ten scallop dinner recipes, you can effortlessly create meals that are both simple and sophisticated, perfect for any special occasion. Embrace your inner gourmet chef and treat your loved ones to a delightful seafood experience!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Easy Scallop Recipes for Beginners?
If you’re just starting out, don’t worry! Some of the easiest scallop recipes involve minimal ingredients and quick cooking times. For instance, simply sear scallops in a hot skillet with a bit of butter and olive oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Pair them with a fresh lemon butter sauce, and you’re set for an elegant meal that feels gourmet without a lot of fuss!
How Can I Make Scallops for Special Occasions More Gourmet?
Elevating your scallop dish for a special occasion can be as simple as adding a few gourmet touches. Consider wrapping scallops in prosciutto before pan-searing, or serve them atop a bed of creamy risotto with herbs. A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of microgreens can also add that fancy flair, making your meal truly unforgettable!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Scallop Dinner Recipes?
When planning your scallop dinner recipes, think of sides that complement their delicate flavor. Light salads with citrus vinaigrette, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed seasonal vegetables work wonderfully. You might also consider a flavorful risotto or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of scallops, creating a harmonious plate for your guests!
Are Scallops Healthy and Nutritious?
Absolutely! Scallops are not only delicious but also nutritious. They are low in calories and packed with protein, making them a great choice for a healthy meal. Plus, they provide essential nutrients like vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and selenium, contributing to your overall well-being. Enjoying scallops can be a delightful way to indulge while still making healthy choices!
Can I Prepare Scallops in Advance for a Quick Dinner Idea?
While scallops are best when fresh, you can prepare some components in advance for a quick dinner idea. You could marinate your scallops or prep a sauce ahead of time. Just make sure to cook them just before serving for that perfectly tender texture. This way, you can impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
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