Grilled Scallops with Garlic
Prep
15 mins
Cook
12 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
There's something special about grilled scallops that feels fancy but takes hardly any time at all. This recipe comes together in just 27 minutes from start to table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you want to impress without the fuss. The star here is really the garlic butter sauce, which brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops while keeping everything simple. Fresh garlic is packed with allicin, a compound known for its anti inflammatory benefits, so you're getting something nutritious alongside the delicious flavors. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this is one of my go to meals whenever I need something elegant but straightforward.
Ella x
Ingredients
- ¾ kglarge sea scallops(patted dry with paper towels)
- 5 tbspunsalted butter
- 6garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tbspfresh lemon juice
- 3 tbspfresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 2 tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1 tspsea salt
- ½ tspblack pepper(freshly ground)
- ¼ tspred pepper flakes
- 4fresh thyme sprigs
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare the grill.
Tip: Dry scallops are essential for achieving a proper sear and golden crust on the grill.
- 2
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) and lightly oil the grates with a paper towel dipped in neutral oil to prevent sticking.
Tip: Clean grates prevent the delicate scallops from tearing apart during cooking.
- 3
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Tip: Watch the garlic carefully as it can burn quickly and become bitter.
- 4
Remove the garlic butter from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, red pepper flakes, and half of the fresh parsley. Set aside to keep warm.
Tip: This garlic butter sauce can be made while the grill is preheating.
- 5
Place the scallops directly on the hot grill grates, leaving space between each one for even cooking. Grill for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
Tip: Resist the urge to flip or move the scallops too early; let them develop color for better flavor.
- 6
Using a thin spatula, carefully flip the scallops and grill for another 2-3 minutes on the second side until just cooked through and opaque. The total cooking time should be about 6-7 minutes.
Tip: Scallops cook very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked, so monitor closely.
- 7
Transfer the grilled scallops to a serving platter and immediately drizzle generously with the warm garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley and fresh thyme sprigs.
Tip: Serving immediately while warm ensures the butter sauce coats the scallops perfectly.
- 8
Serve the scallops with extra lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to add more citrus if desired. Pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon just before eating brightens the rich garlic butter flavors.
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