Grilled Bay Scallops are a light and delicious seafood dish, perfect for a quick meal or an elegant appetizer. These tender scallops are marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, then quickly grilled to perfection. The high heat of the grill gives them a beautiful char while maintaining their soft, delicate texture. With just a few minutes on the grill, the scallops take on a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh and zesty marinade. Serve these scallops over rice, pasta, or a simple salad for a delightful and healthy dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of the sea.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb bay scallops
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Scallops:
- Add the bay scallops to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Allow them to marinate for 15-20 minutes, but no longer, as scallops can become mushy if marinated too long.
- Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated scallops onto the skewers.
- Grill the Scallops:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the scallops for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery.
- Serve:
- Remove the scallops from the grill and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Grilled Bay Scallops are a simple yet flavorful dish that lets the natural sweetness of the scallops shine. Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, these scallops offer a light, healthy meal packed with fresh, zesty flavors.
