Citrus Grilled Scallops Tomato

Citrus grilled scallops are a light and elegant summer dinner that come together quickly with fresh citrus zest and a simple charred tomato vinaigrette. Perfect for warm evenings these scallops feature a balanced blend of brightness smoky undertones and rich seafood flavor. I find myself making these on repeat any time I want to impress guests or enjoy an easy weeknight meal that feels a little special.

I first made these scallops for a backyard cookout with friends when I wanted something impressive but easy to pull off. They vanished in minutes and now everyone asks for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Scallops: choose dry-packed and look for plump ones with a sweet briny smell
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps the scallops brown beautifully on the grill select a fruity extra virgin variety
• Orange zest or lemon or lime zest: brings in vibrant citrus aroma and flavor use organic fruit if possible
• Finely minced garlic: gives savory depth always opt for fresh not pre-minced
• Pinch salt and pepper: essential for bringing out every natural flavor pick a flaky sea salt for extra texture
• Coriander: optional but adds gentle warmth and complexity buy whole seeds and grind yourself for best freshness
• Charred Tomato Vinaigrette: a bright slightly smoky finish perfect for drizzling pick ripe tomatoes if making this from scratch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Grill and Skewers:

If using wooden skewers soak them in water to prevent burning and preheat your grill to medium-high this prevents scallops from sticking and ensures even cooking

Marinate the Scallops:

Pat the scallops dry very well with paper towels moisture will prevent searing add scallops to a bowl drizzle just enough olive oil to coat and toss in a pinch of salt pepper citrus zest garlic and coriander gently combine and let stand for fifteen minutes this infuses deep flavor and tenderizes the scallops

Skewer and Prep for Grilling:

If your scallops need skewers thread them onto two parallel skewers to keep them from spinning use metal or well-soaked wooden skewers this ensures easy turning and even cooking

Grill the Scallops:

Grease the grill grates well to prevent sticking place scallops over direct heat cover and grill for two to three minutes until grill marks form turn cover and grill for another two to three minutes until just opaque I like them just barely cooked through and remove from heat to rest under foil for a few minutes to keep them tender

Serve and Finish:

Arrange scallops on a platter with grilled veggies or greens drizzle with charred tomato vinaigrette or a squeeze of fresh citrus for extra brightness serve immediately for best texture and flavor

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Scallops are my favorite seafood to grill because they pick up smoky flavor in just a few minutes and always turn out juicy I remember making these for my parents one summer and loving how the kitchen stayed clean while the grill did all the work

Storage Tips

Store leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within one to two days for best quality Reheat them gently over low heat or serve chilled over salad to prevent overcooking Scallops do not freeze well once cooked as they tend to lose texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap any citrus zest you like lemon lime or even grapefruit for orange Each brings a unique brightness If you are out of coriander try a touch of ground cumin for warmth No scallops Try extra large shrimp using the same method

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these scallops over fresh greens with grilled zucchini or squash for a complete meal They also pair wonderfully with a simple rice pilaf or grilled sourdough Add extra charred tomato vinaigrette or fresh herbs like dill or basil for a finishing touch

Cultural and Historical Context

Grilling seafood with citrus and olive oil is a tradition found in many coastal cuisines around the world This recipe draws from Mediterranean flavors but feels right at home in any summer backyard gathering Scallops themselves have been prized for their sweet subtle flavor since ancient times

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prevent scallops from sticking on the grill?

Pat scallops dry, coat with olive oil, and grease the grill well before placing them on it to help prevent sticking.

→ How long should scallops be grilled for ideal texture?

Grill over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly charred and just opaque inside.

→ What flavors complement grilled scallops?

Citrus zest like orange or lime, garlic, coriander, and tangy tomato vinaigrette add bright contrast to the sweetness of scallops.

→ Can you substitute other vinaigrettes for the tomato version?

Yes, pickled pepper vinaigrette or a simple citrus squeeze both pair nicely with grilled scallops.

→ What is the best way to serve grilled scallops?

Serve over grilled veggies or a leafy green salad, and top with your choice of citrus or vinaigrette for extra freshness.