Ah, scallops! These tender treasures from the sea never fail to impress. With their buttery texture and subtle sweetness, scallops instantly elevate any dish. Cooking them is like creating a masterpiece—each recipe is a chance to explore endless flavor possibilities.
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or seasoned food lovers, these 23 scallop recipes are sure to win over even the toughest critics. So, grab your apron, heat up your skillet, and let’s turn these scallops into dishes that will leave everyone asking for more!
1. Lemon Herb Grilled Scallops
Grilling scallops brings out a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible. Place these tender morsels on a sizzling grill, and watch them turn golden. The combination of fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs elevates them to a new level.
Pair these juicy morsels with a side salad for a light, refreshing meal. The citrusy notes of lemon mingle perfectly with the earthy herbs, creating a harmony of flavors that dance on your tongue.
2. Creamy Scallop Risotto
Risotto, the quintessential Italian comfort food, becomes even more luxurious with scallops. Stirring creamy risotto while adding tender scallops results in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
The creamy texture of the risotto contrasts beautifully with the seared scallops, while a splash of white wine adds sophistication. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese ties everything together perfectly.
3. Spicy Scallop Tacos
Tacos take a spicy turn with the addition of scallops. Nestle the scallops into soft tortillas, and add a zesty salsa, and you’ve got a vibrant dish. These tacos are a fusion of flavors, a fiesta for your taste buds.
Spicy, tangy, and utterly satisfying, they’re perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Add some avocado slices for extra creaminess. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving, these scallop tacos are sure to please.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon and scallops are a match made in culinary heaven. Wrap succulent scallops in crispy bacon, and you’ve got a dish that’s both indulgent and irresistible.
The salty, smoky bacon enhances the scallop’s natural sweetness, creating a flavor explosion. These little bites of joy are sure to be a hit, bringing smiles to faces all around the table.
5. Scallop and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Stir-frying scallops with tender asparagus offers a delicious, healthy option. This dish is full of vibrant colors and flavors that pop. The scallops cook quickly, retaining their juicy texture.
The asparagus adds a nice crunch, while a hint of garlic and ginger infuses the dish with aroma. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish is both nutritious and delightful, satisfying every craving.
6. Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa
Seared scallops paired with mango salsa create a tropical delight. The sweet, juicy mango complements the slightly caramelized scallops perfectly.
This dish brings sunshine to your plate, with vibrant colors and flavors that are both refreshing and exciting. Ideal for a summer gathering, it transports you to a sunny beach.
7. Garlic Butter Scallops
Garlic butter scallops are a classic that never fails to please. The rich, velvety butter combined with fragrant garlic creates a heavenly sauce.
As the scallops cook, they soak up the buttery goodness, resulting in a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Serve them with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
8. Scallop Ceviche
Ceviche takes on a new twist with scallops as the star ingredient. Fresh, tangy, and full of zest, this dish is perfect for those hot summer days.
The citrus juice “cooks” the scallops just right, while herbs add a burst of freshness. It’s a dish that’s light yet full of flavor. Serve it as an appetizer. Fresh and exciting, it’s a great way to start any meal.
9. Scallop Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce
Pasta lovers rejoice! Scallops and lemon cream sauce come together to create a delightful meal. The creamy sauce envelops the tender pasta and scallops, offering a luxurious experience.
The zest of lemon adds a bright, tangy note that balances the creaminess perfectly. Ideal for a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to impress, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
10. Cajun Scallops with Rice
Bring the heat with Cajun-spiced scallops served over fluffy rice. The bold spices create a dish that’s full of character and warmth.
The scallops, with their tender texture, soak up the Cajun flavors beautifully, creating a harmonious balance. It’s a Southern-inspired delight that brings joy to any table, satisfying even the most adventurous palates.
11. Scallop and Tomato Sea Stew
Sea lovers, rejoice! This scallop and tomato sea stew is hearty and comforting. The rich tomato broth envelops the tender scallops, offering a burst of flavor with every spoonful.
Chunks of tomato and aromatic herbs add depth and character, making this stew a true delight. Serve with crusty bread, and savor each warming bite of this delightful seafood stew.
12. Scallop Sushi Rolls
Sushi takes a delightful turn with fresh scallops as the star. These rolls are not only beautiful but also packed with flavor.
Avocado and cucumber complement the subtle sweetness of the scallops, creating a harmonious balance. Perfect for sushi enthusiasts looking for something new. They’re a fun and delicious way to enjoy scallops, adding a touch of elegance to any gathering.
13. Scallop and Corn Chowder
Chowder lovers, this one’s for you! Creamy corn chowder with scallops is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the corn blends beautifully with the tender scallops, creating a comforting dish.
The creamy broth is rich and satisfying, warming you from the inside out. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a refreshing note. Great for a chilly day, this chowder is a hug in a bowl, bringing comfort and joy with every spoonful.
14. Scallop Poke Bowl
Poke bowls get a gourmet twist with scallops, turning this Hawaiian-inspired dish into a fresh, vibrant flavor explosion. The tender scallops rest on a bed of rice, complemented by colorful vegetables and a drizzle of soy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
It’s a meal that’s not only healthy but also bursting with deliciousness, making each bite a joy. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
15. Scallop and Mushroom Skewers
Skewers featuring scallops and mushrooms offer a delectable outdoor treat. The grill imparts a smoky flavor that enhances both the scallops and mushrooms.
It’s a simple dish that’s all about letting the ingredients shine. The succulent scallops pair perfectly with the earthy mushrooms, creating a harmonious balance. These skewers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, adding flair to any gathering.
16. Curried Scallops with Coconut Milk
Curry lovers will adore this dish. Scallops bathed in coconut milk and spices create a flavorful, rich meal. The curry’s warmth combines with the scallops’ sweetness for a delightful fusion.
It’s exotic, exciting, and utterly delicious. Great choice for those who love bold flavors. Serve it with steamed rice. The vibrant colors and aromas make this dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
17. Scallop Pizza with Pesto
Pizza takes a gourmet turn with scallops and pesto. This combination offers a unique twist on a classic favorite.
The pesto’s vibrant flavor enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast. It’s a pizza that’s both elegant and indulgent. Gather friends and family, and enjoy a slice of something extraordinary, bringing joy and satisfaction to your table.
18. Scallop Carpaccio
Carpaccio, a dish of thinly sliced raw scallops, offers a delicate and elegant experience. It’s all about simplicity and quality ingredients.
Lemon slices add a refreshing zing, while microgreens contribute freshness and color. This dish is a celebration of flavor and texture. It’s a dish that impresses, showcasing the scallops’ natural beauty and taste in every bite.
19. Scallop Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Salad lovers will find joy in this fresh creation. Scallops are the star, adding a luxurious touch to a bed of greens.
The citrus vinaigrette brings brightness and tang, balancing the scallops’ richness perfectly. It’s a salad that’s light, refreshing, and utterly satisfying. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, and let the flavors dance on your palate.
20. Scallop and Black Bean Tostadas
Tostadas take on a gourmet twist with scallops and black beans. The crispy base provides the perfect platform for the tender scallops and flavorful beans.
It’s a dish that’s vibrant, hearty, and full of character. Great for a fun and casual meal. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, bringing joy to every bite.
21. Scallop and Sweet Potato Gratin
Gratin lovers, rejoice! Scallops and sweet potatoes come together to create a dish that’s creamy and comforting.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the scallops perfectly, while a creamy sauce ties everything together. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, bringing comfort and joy to your table, satisfying both heart and soul.
22. Scallop Tempura
Tempura takes on a delightful form with scallops at the forefront. The light, crispy batter encases the juicy scallops, creating a delicious bite.
Dipped in a savory sauce, these morsels are sure to please. It’s a dish that’s simple yet elegant, perfect for those with a love for Japanese cuisine. Serve it as an appetizer, and enjoy the crunch and satisfaction of this delightful dish.
23. Scallop and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells take on a gourmet twist with scallops and spinach. This dish is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
The tender scallops provide a luxurious touch, while spinach adds freshness and color. Baked to perfection, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether it’s a family dinner or an elegant gathering, it’s sure to fill the room with warmth and irresistible flavor.