Tender and Juicy Grilled Whole Scallops
Nutritional value per serving
Calories200kcal
Carbs8gram
Fat5gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Fresh whole scallops in shell12 pieces
- Olive oil (extra virgin recommended for flavor)2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice1 tbsp
- Garlic, minced (choose fresh cloves for best aroma)1 clove
- Salt (sea salt or kosher salt preferred)to taste n/a
- Ground black pepperto taste n/a
- Fresh parsley, chopped1 tbsp
This recipe guides you to grill whole scallops to tender perfection. Grilling scallops whole preserves their moisture and flavor, delivering a juicy, mildly sweet seafood dish that's impressive yet simple. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $15, €13, £11, and ₹1200. Each serving has around 200 kcal, making this dish suitable for pescatarian and low-carb diets. The recipe is easy in difficulty and takes about 30 minutes total, including preparation and cooking. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even kitchen novices can enjoy this delicious grilled seafood treat.
Preparation instructions
Preheat the Grill
1Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 190-230°C or 375-450°F). Ensure grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. This prepares the surface for even cooking and easy turning.
Prepare the Scallops
2Gently rinse the whole scallops in their shells under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove any grit or debris. Keeping scallops in shells helps retain their moisture and flavor while grilling.
Make the Garlic Lemon Oil
3In a small bowl, mix olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. This mixture will impart vibrant flavor and help keep scallops moist during grilling.
Brush Scallops with the Mixture
4Lightly brush the top of each scallop (still in the shell) with the garlic lemon oil mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This enhances taste and prevents dryness.
Grill the Scallops
5Place scallops on the grill, shell side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes with the lid closed, until the scallops are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach at least 60°C (140°F) for safe consumption. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Remove and Garnish
6Carefully remove scallops from the grill using tongs. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the scallops for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Cooking Tips
1Use fresh scallops to ensure the best flavor and texture. Avoid scallops that smell overly fishy or sour.
2Keep the scallops cold until just before grilling to maintain freshness and reduce food safety risks.
3Do not overcook scallops; they become tough if grilled too long. Watch for the color change to opaque white as a doneness indicator.
4Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked scallops.
5If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop at medium-high heat and follow the same timing and instructions.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon for oil
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended for safety)
Shopping List
- [ ] Fresh whole scallops in shell (~12 pieces) - Approx. $10: Choose scallops with closed shells and a fresh ocean smell.
- [ ] Extra virgin olive oil (small bottle) - Approx. $3: Look for cold-pressed and good quality for best flavor.
- [ ] Fresh lemons (1-2) - Approx. $1: Select firm lemons with bright skin.
- [ ] Garlic (1 bulb) - Approx. $0.50: Fresh bulbs with firm cloves.
- [ ] Fresh parsley bunch - Approx. $0.50: Look for vibrant green leaves without wilting.
- [ ] Salt and pepper - Pantry staples.
Total Approximate Cost: $15
FAQ
How do I know when scallops are fully cooked and safe to eat?
Scallops are safe to eat when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. For extra safety, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 60°C (140°F). Avoid overcooking as it can make scallops tough.
Can I use frozen scallops for grilling?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator before grilling. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture for better grill marks and flavor.
How can I avoid scallops sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before preheating. Also, brushing scallops with oil before placing on the grill helps prevent sticking.
Can I grill scallops without the shells?
You can, but grilling whole scallops in their shells helps keep them moist and flavorful. If you grill without shells, be careful not to overcook, and consider using a grill basket.