Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? I know I am. That’s why I created this post. Cooking should be fun and delicious, even on busy nights. Scallops are a fantastic choice for a quick and elegant meal that feels special without the hassle. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor.
If you’re a busy professional looking for gourmet seafood meals that don’t take forever to make, you’re in the right place. These scallop dinner recipes are designed just for you. You can impress family and friends or simply treat yourself after a long day at work. It’s all about enjoying good food without the stress.
In this post, you’ll find 10 easy scallop recipes that elevate your weeknight dinners. From Garlic Butter Scallops to a delightful Spicy Scallop Curry, there’s something for every palate. Each recipe is crafted to ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring your meal. Say goodbye to bland and boring dinners!
So, let’s dive into these quick scallop dishes that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Get ready to make weeknight dinners something you look forward to!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 delicious scallop recipes perfect for busy weeknights that are both easy and elegant.
– Each recipe is designed to be quick, allowing you to enjoy gourmet meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
– Options include flavorful dishes like Scallop and Spinach Pasta and Baked Scallops with Parmesan and Breadcrumbs.
– These recipes highlight healthy ingredients, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet.
– Each dish offers a unique twist on scallops, ensuring variety in your weeknight dinner rotation.
1. Garlic Butter Scallops
Craving a speedy dinner that feels indulgent? Garlic butter scallops flash-sear in minutes, delivering luxury in a weeknight. You get a golden crust, juicy inside, and a bright lemon kiss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh scallops
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Increase heat, add scallops, cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
4. Drizzle lemon juice and garnish with parsley before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, thaw and pat dry before cooking.
– Can I skip butter? You can use oil, but butter gives a richer crust.
Fun fact: Garlic butter scallops cook in under 5 minutes, turning a weeknight into a luxe dinner. A quick 45-second sear on each side locks in sweetness, while lemon and parsley brighten every bite.
Garlic Butter Scallops
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2. Scallop & Spinach Pasta
Craving comfort without heaviness? This scallop pasta pairs tender scallops with spinach in a silky cream sauce. It feels special, yet it comes together fast for a weeknight treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 lb scallops
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente.
2. Sear scallops in a hot skillet until golden; set aside.
3. In same pan, add garlic, spinach until wilted; stir in cream.
4. Return scallops, toss with pasta; season and serve with parmesan.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute cream? Use milk for a lighter sauce; it will be thinner.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta.
Scallop & Spinach Pasta
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3. Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa
Bright, quick, and satisfying, these tacos pair sweet mango with savory scallops for a tropical weeknight twist. They come together fast and feel festive enough for guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 8 small corn tortillas
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño, minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mango, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper. In a skillet, sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
3. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
4. Assemble tacos by placing scallops on tortillas and topping with mango salsa.
5. Optional: add avocado for extra creaminess.
FAQs:
– Can I use shrimp instead of scallops? Yes, shrimp would work beautifully in this recipe!
– Can I make it dairy-free? Skip any dairy toppings; the salsa keeps it bright.
Scallop Tacos with Mango Salsa
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4. Lemon Herb Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Fresh lemon and dill brighten a simple sear, while crisp asparagus adds color and crunch. It looks elegant and comes together in under 30 minutes for a fast, healthy centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season scallops with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and dill.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and add asparagus; sauté until tender.
3. Remove asparagus and add scallops, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Serve scallops over asparagus and drizzle with lemon juice.
FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely; broccoli or green beans would work well.
– Can I add lemon zest? Yes, for extra brightness.
Lemon Herb Seared Scallops with Asparagus
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5. Scallop and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Stir-frying keeps weeknights fast while delivering color and texture. Scallops stay tender as you toss them with crisp veggies and a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil; add garlic and ginger.
2. Add scallops; cook until golden; remove.
3. Stir-fry vegetables until crisp-tender.
4. Return scallops; add soy sauce; toss.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.
FAQs:
– Can I use tamari for gluten-free? Yes.
– Can I make it vegetarian? Omit scallops; add tofu.
Scallop and Vegetable Stir-Fry
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Risotto creaminess meets seafood elegance. Keep it simple and fast enough for weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1 lb scallops
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Warm broth; keep simmering.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil.
3. Add rice; toast briefly; add wine, then broth gradually, stirring.
4. Sear scallops; set aside.
5. Stir Parmesan; season; plate with scallops on top.
FAQs:
– Can I use dairy-free cheese? Skip or use dairy-free Parmesan.
– Can I make ahead? Risotto is best fresh.
Scallop Risotto
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Oven-baked goodness with a crispy top. A quick, elegant starter or main.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sea scallops
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
– 2 tbsp melted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Top scallops in a baking dish; bake 12-15 minutes until golden.
4. Serve with lemon wedge.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen scallops? Thaw before cooking.
– Can I add lemon zest? Yes for brightness.
Baked Scallops with Parmesan and Breadcrumbs
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8. Scallop Chowder
Cozy bowl on a cool night. Creamy, hearty with tender scallops.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 cups fish stock
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter; sauté onion.
2. Add potatoes and stock; simmer until tender.
3. Stir in cream and scallops; cook until opaque.
4. Season and serve.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze chowder? Not ideal; best fresh.
– Can I add corn? Yes for sweetness and texture.
Scallop Chowder
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9. Scallop and Avocado Salad
Light, fresh and satisfying. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 1 avocado, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season scallops with salt and pepper; sear in a skillet until golden brown.
2. In a bowl, combine mixed greens, avocado, and olive oil.
3. Drizzle with lime juice and toss to combine.
4. Top the salad with seared scallops and serve immediately.
FAQs:
– Can I add nuts? Yes, for crunch.
– Can I use lemon instead of lime? Yes.
Fun fact: a quick sear to golden brown locks in flavor, while a fresh avocado adds healthy fats, turning scallop dinner recipes into a light, satisfying lunch or dinner. Keep it simple: greens, lime, and olive oil make every bite feel like a gourmet shortcut.
Scallop and Avocado Salad
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Love heat? This curry brings warmth and seafood together. Creamy coconut base is comforting.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb scallops
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry paste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic.
2. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add coconut milk and simmer.
4. Add scallops; cook until just opaque.
5. Serve with rice or naan.
FAQs:
– Can I use shrimp? Yes, shrimp works well.
– Can I adjust spice? Add more or less curry paste.
Did you know scallops cook in just 2–3 minutes? This spicy curry turns quick seafood into a comforting weeknight feast. A creamy coconut base plus a hint of heat keeps dinner simple, fast, and shareable.
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Conclusion
Elevate your weeknight dinners with these scallop recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Each dish offers a unique combination of ingredients and styles that can cater to different tastes while maintaining that touch of elegance. Whether it’s a cozy night in or entertaining friends, scallops can easily become your go-to for gourmet dining at home. So, roll up your sleeves and start cooking these delightful meals!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best scallop dinner recipes for quick weeknight meals?
These 10 scallop dinner recipes are designed for quick weeknights, often finishing in about 20 minutes from start to serving. Look for methods like fast searing, simple pan sauces, and one-pan meals that minimize cleanup.
Pair with a quick side like sautéed greens or a fluffy quinoa to build a complete weeknight dinner ideas menu. A few pantry staples (lemon, garlic, butter, and white wine) keep your scallop dinner recipes feeling elegant without extra effort.
How can I make scallop dinner recipes that feel elegant and easy for busy professionals?
To make these recipes feel elegant yet easy for busy professionals, choose dishes that use a single skillet or sheet-pan and a light, bright sauce. A classic combo like seared scallops with lemon-butter or white wine and herbs elevates the dish without heavy prep. Keep the ingredients simple: fresh scallops, a veggie on the side, and a quick starch (rice, pasta, or quinoa). These are prime examples of elegant seafood meals that fit quick scallop dishes needs.
Are there healthy scallop entrees in these recipes, and how can I keep them light?
Yes—these recipes feature healthy scallop entrees. Scallops are lean, high-protein seafood that pair well with veggies and whole grains. To keep meals light, opt for lighter sauces (lemon and caper, olive oil-based) and load up on vegetables. A great option from the collection is seared scallops with asparagus and a bright, simple pan sauce. You can enjoy healthy scallop entrees without sacrificing flavor.
Can I customize these easy scallop recipes for different flavors or dietary needs?
Absolutely. The recipes are versatile and designed for customization. Swap in gluten-free pasta or swap dairy for olive oil-based sauces, add herbs and citrus for fresh flavor, or dial up chili flakes for heat. For dairy-free or vegan-adjacent tweaks, stick to olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs. This keeps your weeknight dinner ideas flexible while preserving the core technique of scallop dinner recipes.
How long do these scallop dinner recipes take from start to finish, and what are some time-saving tips?
Most of these scallop dinner recipes finish in about 20-25 minutes, perfect for weeknights. Quick tips: thaw scallops properly and pat dry for a great sear, use high heat and a hot pan, and multitask with your side dish while the scallops sear. Prep with mise en place and use a simple pan sauce that comes together in minutes to keep the meal streamlined.
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