Description
This grilled scallops recipe features fresh scallops cooked in their shells topped with a rich and aromatic garlic butter infused with herbs and optional chili flakes. The scallops are quickly grilled to a golden brown perfection and served with freshly grilled lemon slices, making it a perfect elegant appetizer or main course with vibrant, smoky, and buttery flavors.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 12 scallops in shell
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher sea salt
- 1 lemon, sliced
Garlic Butter
- 2 bulbs garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Kosher sea salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic for Roasting: Peel the garlic cloves by separating them from the bulbs and placing them into a heatproof bowl. Submerge the cloves in boiling hot water for 5 minutes to loosen their skins, then drain and peel off the skin easily.
- Roast Garlic: Place peeled garlic cloves in an ovenproof dish and fully submerge them in 1 tbsp olive oil, ensuring the garlic is completely covered to prevent burning. Bake in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) for 1 to 2 hours or until the garlic turns golden brown.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Separate the roasted garlic cloves from the oil, reserving the oil for future use. In a food processor, blend the roasted garlic, 6 tbsp unsalted butter, chopped parsley, chopped chives, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper until smooth. Alternatively, mash together using a fork in a bowl.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your BBQ grill to high heat, aiming for about 200°C (390°F). Keep the grill lid closed while heating to maintain consistent temperature.
- Prepare Scallops: Gently remove scallops from their shells, pat dry thoroughly with paper towels, and season each with a pinch of kosher sea salt. Return the scallops to their shells and drizzle 1/2 tbsp olive oil evenly over them.
- Grill Scallops and Lemon: Place scallops in their shells along with lemon slices directly onto the hot grill. Close the lid and grill for 2 minutes until the scallops start to brown.
- Flip and Add Garlic Butter: Using a spatula, carefully flip the scallops to brown the other side. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the prepared garlic butter onto each scallop. Close the lid and grill for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and infuse flavor.
- Serve: Remove scallops and lemon slices from the grill. Squeeze the warm grilled lemon over the scallops for a fresh citrus finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the scallops at their best.
Notes
- The reserved garlic-infused olive oil can be stored at room temperature in a sealed glass container for up to 4 weeks and used for dressings or cooking.
- Ensure the garlic is fully submerged in olive oil during roasting to prevent burning and achieve a smooth roasted flavor.
- If you don’t have a BBQ grill, a stovetop grill pan heated to high can be used as an alternative.
- Chili flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat that complements the garlic butter.
- Patting the scallops dry is crucial to achieve a good sear and prevent steaming on the grill.
- Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain the high temperature required for quick searing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood