Grilled Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce: it’s a dish that sings of summer, of the sea and pure culinary delight. In this post, I’m sharing chef’s tips and tricks for achieving perfectly grilled diver scallops, kissed with a luscious garlic butter sauce, all in under 20 minutes. Get ready to impress with this quick, easy, and utterly delicious recipe for grilled scallops with garlic butter.
Table of Contents
Key Information:
- Culinary Art: American, Seafood, Grilling
- Dish Category: Appetizer/Main Course
- Preparation Time: 8-10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
- Calories: Approximately 200-350 calories per serving
- Published by: Recipes FAQ
It’s advised, that users use a calorie-tracking app if they need precise counts.
All About Grilled Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce
Grilled Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce is a dish that sings of summer, the sea, and pure culinary delight. It’s a quick, easy, and impressive meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet, tender diver scallops and a luscious garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible.
Why You Should Make It:
Perfectly grilled scallops are a restaurant favorite but often seem intimidating to make at home. But it’s easier than you think! This grilled diver scallops recipe is:
- Fast: Ready in under 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Easy: Even beginners can master this technique with simple instructions.
- Delicious: The flavor combination is out of this world!
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer or a main course.
Unique Selling Points:
This isn’t just another grilled scallops with garlic butter recipe. This version incorporates some key techniques that take it to the next level:
- Flavor Infusion: The garlic butter sauce is infused with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon for extra brightness.
- Resting Period: A short resting period after grilling ensures the scallops remain juicy and tender to one’s Mouth.
Taste and Flavor Profile:
Imagine The smoky char from the grill perfectly complements the sweet, delicate flavor of the diver scallops. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory note, with hints of fresh herbs and a bright touch of lemon. The texture is a delightful contrast. a crisp grill on the outside and tender and succulent on the inside. These grilled garlic scallops are truly a culinary delight.
What are Garlic Butter Grilled Diver Scallops Made Of?
Creating restaurant-quality grilled diver scallops with garlic butter sauce at home is easier than you think! The key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. This recipe keeps it simple, focusing on the delicious combination of sweet scallops and a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diver Scallops | 1 pound | Fresh, dry diver scallops are best for grilling. See tips below. |
| Butter | 1/2 cup | Unsalted, high-quality butter |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped |
| Fresh Thyme | 1 tablespoon | Chopped |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon Zest | 1 teaspoon | Optional, for extra flavor |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon | For grilling |
Additional Notes:
- Diver Scallops: Fresh diver scallops are ideal for grilled scallops. Look for dry diver scallops (meaning they haven’t been soaked in water), as these will sear best. If you can find hand-dived scallops, that would be even better! They’re often considered the highest quality. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before grilling. Diver sea scallops are a good alternative if you cannot find dry diver scallops
- Butter: Using high-quality butter makes a difference in the flavor of the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always best for garlic butter sauce.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives or oregano.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, citrusy note that complements the grilled garlic scallops perfectly.
Ingredient Substitutes for Grilled Scallops Recipe
While grilled garlic butter diver scallops are best with the specific ingredients listed, here are some possible substitutions if needed:
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diver Scallops | Sea Scallops, Bay Scallops | Sea scallops are the most similar in taste and texture. Bay scallops are smaller and sweeter, but will work. Adjust cooking time accordingly. |
| Butter | Margarine, Ghee | Margarine may alter the flavor slightly. Ghee is clarified butter and adds a nutty flavor. |
| Garlic | Garlic powder (1 tsp) | Fresh garlic is always preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. |
| Fresh Parsley | Dried parsley (1 tsp), Fresh chives, Fresh oregano | Dried herbs are less flavorful than fresh. Chives or oregano offers a similar fresh, herbaceous note. |
| Fresh Thyme | Dried thyme (1/2 tsp), Fresh rosemary, Fresh oregano | Dried herbs are less flavorful than fresh. Rosemary or oregano offer a similar earthy flavor. |
| Lemon Juice | Lime juice | Lime juice offers a slightly different citrus flavor, but works well. |
| Lemon Zest | Orange zest | Dried herbs are less flavorful than fresh. Rosemary or oregano offers a similar earthy flavor. |
Special Notes on Substitutions :
- Low Carb Option: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, as the main ingredients are protein (scallops) and fat (butter). Be mindful of portion sizes.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative.
Ensure any other ingredients or additions you make are also vegan. - Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additions or side dishes you serve with the scallops are also gluten-free.
- Scallops: While diver scallops are considered a premium ingredient, sea scallops are a great substitute and are widely available. Bay scallops are smaller and cook faster, so grilling time is reduced.
- Butter: Margarine can be used, but it may not provide the same rich flavor as butter. Ghee is a good alternative for those with dairy sensitivities (though it still contains trace amounts of dairy).
- Herbs: Dried herbs should be used sparingly, as they are more concentrated than fresh. Use about 1/3 of the amount specified for fresh herbs.
Directions for the Preparation of the Garlic Butter Scallops
Ready to create perfectly diver scallops with a garlic butter twist? Here’s how:
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the diver scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear, preventing the scallops from steaming instead of grilling. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Using fresh diver scallops will provide the best results.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Stir in the chopped parsley, thyme, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the sauce warm for drizzling over your grilled garlic scallops. This garlic butter sauce is easy to make and adds incredible flavor.
For an alternative flavor profile, consider using Homemade benihana garlic butter sauce Recipe - Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates and lightly brush them with olive oil to prevent sticking. If using grilling grids, lightly oil them as well. For indoor grilling, you can use a cast iron skillet.
- Grill the Scallops: Place the diver scallops on the hot grill grates (or grilling grids). Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are brown and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the size of your scallops.
- Serve: Remove the grilled scallops from the grill and immediately drizzle them with the warm garlic butter sauce. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. These grilled scallops with garlic butter make a delicious appetizer or main course.
Why This Method Works:
- Patting Dry: Patting the diver scallops dry is essential because excess moisture will steam the scallops instead of searing them. A good sear is key for flavor and texture.
- Searing: Grilling the scallops over medium-high heat creates a beautiful caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the diver scallops. The fresh herbs and lemon juice add brightness and balance.
- Grilling Grids: Using grilling grids is highly recommended, especially for smaller scallops, as it prevents them from falling through the grates.
To expand your skills, check out these 5 Cooking Techniques for Garlic Butter Scallops and discover new ways to prepare this delicious dish!
Serving Suggestions
Best Dishes to Serve with Grilled Diver Scallops:
These grilled diver scallops with garlic butter sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served as either an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course. Here are three delicious pairings that complement the delicate flavor of the scallops:
- Risotto: A creamy risotto, such as lemon-parmesan risotto or asparagus risotto, provides a rich and comforting base for the grilled scallops. The creamy texture of the risotto contrasts beautifully with the slightly charred exterior of the scallops.
- Pasta: A light pasta dish, like linguine with pesto or angel hair with a lemon butter sauce, is another excellent choice. The pasta soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce from the scallops, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: For a lighter and healthier option, serve the grilled diver scallops alongside a medley of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob. The smoky char of the vegetables complements the grilled flavor of the scallops, and the vibrant colors create a visually appealing dish.
Serving Tips:
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
- Presentation: For a restaurant-style presentation, arrange the grilled diver scallops on a bed of risotto or pasta, or artfully arrange them alongside grilled vegetables. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the scallops and garnish with fresh herbs.
Practical Recommendations and Tips for Grilled Diver Scallops
Cooking Techniques for Best Results:
- Scallop Selection: Look for fresh diver scallops that are dry and have a sweet, briny smell. Avoid scallops that smell fishy or sour. Sea scallops are a good substitute if diver scallops are unavailable.
- Preparation: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels before grilling. This is essential for achieving a good sear. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The grates should be hot enough to sear the scallops quickly.
- Grilling Time: Grill the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them tough. How long to grill diver scallops depends on their size.
- Grilling Grids: Using grilling grids is highly recommended, especially for smaller scallops, as it prevents them from falling through the grates.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Make the garlic butter sauce while the grill is preheating. Keep it warm so you can drizzle it over the grilled scallops as soon as they come off the grill.
Want to know more? We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Scallops to help you grill them perfectly every time!
Presentation Ideas for a Restaurant-Style Look:
- Plating: Arrange the grilled diver scallops on a bed of risotto or pasta, or artfully arrange them alongside grilled vegetables.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors.
- Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle the warm garlic butter sauce over the scallops just before serving.
- Contrast: Create visual interest by using plates and serving dishes that contrast with the colors of the scallops and the sauce.
Storage Suggestions to Keep Grilled Diver Scallops Fresh:
- Refrigeration: Leftover grilled diver scallops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the scallops gently in a skillet or microwave. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them tough.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the scallops. It is best to consume them fresh.
