Scallop Kabobs Italian-Style
Italian-style scallop kabobs feature tender scallops wrapped in ham, grilled to perfection, and brushed with a flavorful lemon and parsley sauce, ideal for elegant gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each scallop with a strip of ham.
- Thread 6 scallops onto each of 6 (12-inch) skewers.
- Set aside.
- Coat a small nonstick skillet with cooking spray.
- Place over medium heat until hot, then add garlic and sauté until browned.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, and oregano.
- Coat grill rack with cooking spray and place on grill over medium-hot coals.
- Place kabobs on rack and cook for 9 minutes, turning and basting frequently with lemon juice mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the scallops in the lemon juice mixture for 30 minutes before wrapping them in ham. If you prefer a smokier taste, try using smoked sea salt instead of regular salt. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be substituted for parsley for a different flavor profile. Be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these scallop kabobs with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the ham. A refreshing cucumber salad pairs beautifully with the kabobs, or consider serving them alongside pasta dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara Madalena for a more filling meal. Drizzle with additional lemon juice for an extra zing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scallop kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the kabobs for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the grill over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallop Kabobs Italian-Style contains roughly 935 calories, with 34g protein, 237g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (518% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 145g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before using. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear when grilling.
What can I substitute for the ham in this recipe?
If you want a lighter option, you can use turkey bacon or prosciutto as a substitute for the ham. For a vegetarian version, consider wrapping the scallops in thin slices of zucchini or eggplant and seasoning them accordingly.
How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They typically take about 9 minutes to cook on the grill, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough and chewy.
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).