Quick Grilled Scallops
Juicy scallops paired with earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs, cooked quickly in butter for a flavorful, elegant dish perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large frying pan.
- Add scallops and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes over medium-high heat, turning once.
- Add mushrooms and chopped shallot to the pan; continue cooking covered for 1 minute.
- Add chopped parsley, chives, lemon juice, and mix well.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh scallops and avoid overcooking them; they should be just opaque in the center. If you don't have shallots, finely chopped onions can be a good substitute. Adding a splash of white wine while cooking can enhance the dish. For a twist, consider incorporating lemon zest or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Lemon Garlic Asparagus or a light pasta dish. For a special touch, drizzle with a homemade lemon butter sauce and garnish with extra herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of butter to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Grilled Scallops contains roughly 524 calories, with 40g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (220% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 941mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but it's essential to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture from making the dish watery.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute olive oil or coconut oil for the butter. Both will still provide a rich flavor, though the taste will vary slightly.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
Scallops are done cooking when they are opaque and firm to the touch, typically taking about 3-4 minutes total. Be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).