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Scallop Kabobs
Grilled

Scallop Kabobs

Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Total30 min
Serves4
Scallop Kabobs
Grilled scallop kabobs with a squeeze of lemon

As a coastal home cook, I've always been fascinated by the simplicity and flavor of scallop kabobs. Growing up, my family would often gather around the grill, watching as my father expertly cooked up a batch of these tender and juicy treats. Now, I'm excited to share my own recipe with you, one that's perfect for a quick and delicious seafood dinner.

Scallop kabobs are an excellent choice for a weeknight meal, as they're incredibly easy to prepare and can be cooked in just a few minutes. Plus, they're a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s and other essential nutrients. In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to create the perfect scallop kabobs, from preparing the scallops to serving them up with your favorite sides.

One of the things I love about scallop kabobs is their versatility. You can serve them as a main course, or as a side dish to complement your favorite grilled meats or vegetables. They're also a great option for a crowd, as they can be easily scaled up to feed a large group of people.

In this recipe, I'll be using a combination of scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions, all threaded onto skewers and brushed with a flavorful mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. The result is a dish that's not only delicious, but also visually appealing and perfect for a summer evening.

So, if you're looking for a new and exciting way to cook scallops, look no further than this recipe for scallop kabobs. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you'll be enjoying a delicious and healthy meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Scallop kabobs are an easy and delicious way to cook seafood
  • They can be prepared in just a few minutes, making them perfect for a weeknight meal
  • The combination of scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions creates a flavorful and visually appealing dish
  • Scallop kabobs are a great source of omega-3s and other essential nutrients
  • They can be served as a main course or as a side dish, making them a versatile option for any meal
  • The recipe is easy to scale up or down, depending on the number of people you're serving

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great scallop kabobs is to cook the scallops to the right temperature. This ensures that they're tender and juicy, rather than tough and overcooked. To achieve this, it's essential to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops.

Another important factor is the type of oil used for brushing the scallops. I recommend using a high-quality olive oil, as it adds a rich and fruity flavor to the dish. Additionally, the acidity in the lemon juice helps to balance out the richness of the oil, creating a well-rounded and refreshing flavor profile.

The combination of garlic and lemon juice also plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the scallops. The pungency of the garlic complements the sweetness of the scallops, while the lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and acidity. By balancing these flavors, we can create a dish that's both delicious and well-rounded.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make scallop kabobs, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including scallops, cherry tomatoes, onions, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You'll also need some skewers, which can be found at most grocery stores or online.

When selecting scallops, look for ones that are fresh and have a pleasant smell. You can also use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels before using.

  • 1 lb (450g) scallopsLook for fresh scallops with a pleasant smell, or use frozen scallops that have been thawed and patted dry with paper towels
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halvedUse fresh cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture
  • 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch piecesUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor, and mince it just before using
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juiceUse fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to taste
  • 1/4 cup olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to taste
  • 1 teaspoon saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to taste
  • 10 bamboo skewersSoak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning
  • 2 tablespoons butterUse unsalted butter for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to taste
Ingredients for Scallop Kabobs

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlCutting boardSharp knifeInstant-read thermometerGrill or grill panTongs or spatula

How to Make Scallop Kabobs

  1. 1
    Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400 F (200 C).
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3
    Add the scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
  4. 4
    Thread the scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. 5
    Brush the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. 6
    Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the scallops are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  7. 7
    Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops, which should reach 145 F (63 C).
  8. 8
    Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the heat and brush with butter.
  9. 9
    Serve the scallop kabobs hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
  10. 10
    Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  11. 11
    Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa.

Expert Tips

  • Make sure to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning.
  • Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don't overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.
  • Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Use a variety of colors and textures to make the dish visually appealing.
  • Consider serving the kabobs with a side of tangy slaw or salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the kabobs before serving.
  • To make the dish more substantial, serve the kabobs with a side of grilled bread or pita chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking the scallops, which can make them tough and rubbery.
  • Not soaking the skewers in water before using, which can cause them to burn.
  • Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
  • Not letting the kabobs rest before serving, which can cause the juices to run out.
  • Not brushing the grill or grill pan with oil before cooking, which can cause the kabobs to stick.
  • Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked scallops.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use different types of protein, such as shrimp or chicken, for a variation on the recipe.
  • Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the kabobs.
  • Use a variety of colorful bell peppers, such as red, yellow, and orange, to add some extra color to the dish.
  • Add some fresh pineapple or mango to the kabobs for a sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Use a different type of oil, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, for a unique flavor.
  • Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the kabobs for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Serve the kabobs with a side of quinoa or couscous for a hearty and filling meal.

What to Serve With Scallop Kabobs

Scallop kabobs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some ideas include grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, or a refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette.

You could also serve the kabobs with a side of quinoa or couscous, or with some crusty bread or pita chips for a satisfying crunch.

Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchiniRefreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigretteQuinoa or couscousCrusty bread or pita chipsRoasted sweet potatoesGrilled corn on the cob

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Scallop kabobs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply place the kabobs in a covered container and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Alternatively, you can also freeze the kabobs for up to 2 months. Simply place the kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze until ready to cook.

To reheat the kabobs, simply place them on the grill or in a grill pan and cook until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for a few minutes, or until heated through.

It's also a good idea to label and date the container or bag, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?

You can use either fresh or frozen scallops for this recipe. If using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels before using.

How do I prevent the scallops from sticking to the grill or grill pan?

To prevent the scallops from sticking, be sure to brush the grill or grill pan with oil before cooking. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of oil on the kabobs themselves.

Can I use a different type of protein for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of protein, such as shrimp or chicken, for this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed to ensure that the protein is cooked through.

How do I know when the scallops are cooked through?

To check if the scallops are cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The scallops should reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply prepare the kabobs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the kabobs for up to 2 months and cook them when you're ready.

What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

Some good sides to serve with this recipe include grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, or a refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. You could also serve the kabobs with a side of quinoa or couscous, or with some crusty bread or pita chips for a satisfying crunch.

Can I use a different type of oil for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of oil for this recipe. Some good options include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or olive oil. Simply adjust the amount of oil to taste and use it to brush the grill or grill pan before cooking.

How do I store leftover kabobs?

To store leftover kabobs, simply place them in a covered container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the kabobs for up to 2 months and cook them when you're ready.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can make this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients as needed to feed the number of people you're serving. You can also prepare the kabobs ahead of time and cook them in batches to ensure that everyone gets a hot and freshly cooked kabob.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Scallop Kabobs

Scallop Kabobs

I'm sharing my foolproof scallop kabobs recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious seafood dinner. Get ready for a flavorful and easy meal!

Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Total30 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) scallops
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 10 bamboo skewers
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400 F (200 C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
  4. Thread the scallops, cherry tomatoes, and onions onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Brush the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the scallops are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  7. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops, which should reach 145 F (63 C).
  8. Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the heat and brush with butter.
  9. Serve the scallop kabobs hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
  10. Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  11. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

250Calories
30gProtein
10gCarbs
10gFat