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Golden seared scallops on a plate with herb butter

Seared sea scallops with a golden crust

Grilled Scallops

Grilled Scallops

14 minMedium

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

4 min

Total Time

14 min

Servings

4

12 scallops

Difficulty

Medium

Cost

Premium

$$$

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Grilled Scallops

Seared sea scallops with a golden crust

Jumbo sea scallops grilled until caramelized golden on the outside and buttery tender within. An elegant dish that takes just minutes to prepare.

10m

Prep Time

4m

Cook Time

14m

Total Time

4

Servings

Medium

Difficulty

Premium $$$

Cost

French CuisineMain CourseAppetizerGluten-FreeKeto
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

March 15, 2023(Updated April 13, 2026)

Scallops are the quickest luxury protein on the grill—a perfect sear takes only 2 minutes per side. The key is starting with dry scallops and the hottest fire you can build.

Why This Recipe Works

A dry surface is essential for the Maillard reaction that creates the prized golden crust on scallops. Wet-packed scallops have been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate and will steam instead of sear.

Ingredients

  • 12 jumbo dry-packed sea scallops
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Remove the side muscle from each scallop. Pat scallops very dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Brush with olive oil. Preheat grill to the highest heat possible.

  3. 3

    Grill scallops 2 minutes per side without moving—they need uninterrupted contact for a golden crust.

  4. 4

    While scallops grill, melt butter with garlic and lemon juice in a small pan.

  5. 5

    Transfer scallops to plates, drizzle with garlic-lemon butter, and garnish with chives.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Serve alongside a fresh baguette and salted butter

  • Pair with a crisp green salad with Dijon vinaigrette

  • Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering

  • Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor

Substitutions

Sea scallopsJumbo shrimp

Similar cook time and pairs with the same sauce

ButterBrown butter

Adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with scallops

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Buy "dry-packed" scallops—they have not been treated with chemicals and sear properly.

  • Do not touch or move the scallops for the first 2 minutes—patience creates the golden crust.

Storage

Best eaten immediately. Refrigerate for up to 1 day.

Reheating

Scallops do not reheat well—they become rubbery. Eat fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (55mg) · 4 servings

Calories200
LowModerateHigh

A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein22g
Carbohydrates10g
Fat3g
Fiber380mg
Sugar0g
Sodium0g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dry-packed scallops?
Scallops that have not been soaked in sodium tripolyphosphate. They are more expensive but sear beautifully.
How do I prevent sticking?
Ensure scallops are bone dry, well-oiled, and the grill is blazing hot before placing them.

Explore More

More French RecipesMore Main CourseMore AppetizerGluten-Free RecipesKeto RecipesGrill Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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