Delicious BBQ boiled whole scallops on a grill plate, garnished and ready to eat

Succulent BBQ Boiled Whole Scallops: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Succulent BBQ Boiled Whole Scallops: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: seafood
Ingredients: 12 pieces Whole scallops in shell (fresh, cleaned); 2 liters Water; 2 tbsp Sea salt; 6 pieces Lemon wedges; 3 pieces Garlic cloves (crushed); 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped); to taste n/a Black pepper (freshly ground)

Home Page / Boiling Recipes / How to Boil Scallops

easy

10 min

Nutritional value per serving

Calories200kcal

Carbs3gram

Fat5gram

Protein20gram

Ingredients

Quantity

Whole scallops in shell (fresh, cleaned)12 pieces
Water2 liters
Sea salt2 tbsp
Lemon wedges6 pieces
Garlic cloves (crushed)3 pieces
Fresh parsley (chopped)2 tbsp
Black pepper (freshly ground)to taste n/a

This recipe guides you through the simple and safe process of boiling whole scallops to enjoy on the BBQ. Boiling is a gentle way to cook scallops while preserving their delicate flavor and texture before finishing them on the BBQ for a smoky taste. The total cost of the ingredients is approximately $15 USD (13 Euros, £11, ₹1200). Each serving contains around 200 calories and provides a good source of lean protein. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking an easy yet impressive dish. The recipe is easy in complexity, with a total time of around 20 minutes, perfect for beginner cooks and those with standard kitchen tools.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the water bath

1Pour 2 liters of water into a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons of sea salt and the crushed garlic cloves. Bring it to a gentle boil. This salty water will help season the scallops evenly while boiling.

Rinse the scallops gently

2Rinse the whole scallops under cold running water to remove any sand or grit. Handle them carefully to avoid breaking the shells. This cleaning step is essential for food safety and better taste.

Boil the scallops

3Once the water is boiling, carefully add the scallops to the pot. Let them boil gently for about 5 minutes. You'll know they are done when the shells open up slightly but not fully, and the flesh inside turns opaque and firm. For safety, the internal temperature should reach at least 63°C (145°F). Use a food thermometer if possible.

Drain and prepare for BBQ

4Using tongs, carefully remove the scallops from the boiling water and let excess water drain. Be cautious as both shells and steam will be hot, which is a safety reminder to avoid burns.

Grill the scallops on BBQ

5Place the boiled scallops on a preheated BBQ grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side to add smoky flavor and attractive grill marks. Avoid overcooking, as scallops become rubbery if too tough.

Serve and garnish

6Transfer scallops to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips

1Use fresh, high-quality scallops from a reputable source to ensure safety and the best taste.

2Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for seafood and other foods.

3If you don't have a BBQ grill, you can finish the scallops under a broiler or in a hot skillet for similar smoky flavor.

4Do not overboil the scallops as it can make them tough; keep an eye out for the shells to slightly open and flesh to turn opaque.

Equipment

Large pot
Tongs
Food thermometer (recommended for safety)
BBQ grill or alternative heat source
Serving platter

Grocery Shopping List

[ ] Whole scallops in shell (12 pieces, fresh) - Approx. $12. Tip: Choose scallops with clean shells and no strong odor.
[ ] Sea salt (2 tbsp) - Approx. $0.50. Use fine sea salt for even seasoning.
[ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) - Approx. $0.30. Fresh garlic adds great aroma.
[ ] Fresh parsley (2 tbsp) - Approx. $1. Tip: Pick bright, green leaves without wilting.
[ ] Lemons (for wedges, 2 lemons for 6 wedges) - Approx. $1. Look for firm, shiny skin.

Total Cost: Approx. $15

FAQ

How do I know when scallops are fully cooked?

Cooked scallops turn opaque and firm. The shell will slightly open. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach at least 63°C (145°F) for safety.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Do not thaw at room temperature to avoid bacterial growth.

How to avoid overcooking scallops?

Keep a close eye on cooking times. Boil just until they turn opaque, about 5 minutes, and then grill briefly for 2-3 minutes each side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.