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If you’re craving an elegant yet effortless seafood meal, these 26+ scallop dinner recipes are exactly what you need.
From buttery pan-seared scallops to globally inspired dishes like miso-glazed or coconut curry scallops, this collection captures the delicate sweetness and rich versatility of this prized shellfish.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party entrée, scallops can transform a simple dish into something truly special.
The aroma of garlic butter, the golden crust from a perfect sear, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture all make scallops a gourmet favorite.
26+ Best Scallop Dinner Recipes for Any Occasion
With so many irresistible options, these scallop dinner recipes are sure to elevate your home-cooked meals.
Whether you’re experimenting with bold flavors or sticking to buttery classics, scallops offer versatility, speed, and sophistication in every dish.
Pick your favorite from the list and enjoy a seafood dinner that tastes like it came from a fine-dining kitchen.
Garlic Butter Scallops
Garlic Butter Scallops are a golden-seared indulgence, where each scallop is caramelized to perfection in a silky garlic and herb butter.
The rich aroma of sizzling garlic fills the kitchen, signaling a flavor-packed dish that melts in your mouth with a tender, almost creamy texture.
Whether served over risotto or alongside sautéed greens, this recipe brings elegance and ease to your dinner table.
Lemon Herb Scallops
Lemon Herb Scallops burst with brightness, combining zesty citrus with fragrant rosemary and thyme for a fresh, uplifting profile.
The delicate sweetness of the scallops is elevated by a buttery pan sauce that’s both tangy and savory.
Pair it with roasted asparagus or couscous for a light yet flavorful dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Scallop Pasta
Scallop Pasta blends ocean-kissed sweetness with silky, garlic-infused linguine, offering a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple.
The scallops develop a golden sear that contrasts beautifully with the smooth texture of the pasta and the savory notes of white wine and parmesan.
Versatile and satisfying, it’s perfect for a cozy date night or an impressive dinner with friends.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are a smoky-sweet sensation where crispy, salty bacon wraps around tender, juicy scallops for a bold flavor explosion.
The aroma of bacon sizzling in the pan is irresistible, while each bite delivers a contrast of crunchy and succulent textures.
Serve them with mashed cauliflower or a crisp salad for a rich and satisfying dinner.
Creamy Scallop Risotto
Creamy Scallop Risotto is the epitome of indulgence, pairing pan-seared scallops with a velvety, parmesan-laced risotto.
Hints of garlic, white wine, and shallots blend into every spoonful, while the scallops provide a delicate sweetness and buttery finish.
This luxurious dish stands alone beautifully or can be paired with steamed vegetables for a balanced gourmet meal.
Scallops with Mango Salsa
Scallops with Mango Salsa deliver a tropical twist, where sweet and juicy mango salsa enhances the mild, tender flavor of seared scallops.
The freshness of lime, cilantro, and chili balances the richness of the seafood, creating a bright and vibrant combination.
It’s a colorful and refreshing dinner option that shines on its own or paired with coconut rice or grilled vegetables.
Seared Scallops
Seared Scallops deliver a restaurant-quality experience with their beautifully caramelized crust and tender, juicy center.
Cooked quickly in a hot pan with just butter and a hint of sea salt, their natural sweetness is allowed to shine through.
Perfect when served over a bed of creamy polenta or simple arugula salad, this dish is as versatile as it is elegant.
Scallop Stir Fry
Scallop Stir Fry brings together succulent scallops, vibrant bell peppers, and snap peas in a savory soy-ginger glaze.
The aroma of garlic and sesame fills the kitchen, hinting at the bold, umami-packed flavors in every bite.
Serve it with jasmine rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that’s both quick and nourishing.
Scallop Tacos
Scallop Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on taco night, featuring chili-lime seared scallops tucked into warm tortillas.
Fresh toppings like avocado, cabbage slaw, and a tangy crema bring texture and zest to every bite.
This coastal-inspired dinner pairs wonderfully with grilled corn or a citrusy margarita.
Scallops with Pea Purée
Scallops with Pea Purée is a vibrant and refined dish where golden-brown scallops rest atop a smooth, sweet pea purée.
The freshness of mint and lemon in the purée balances the rich, buttery scallops for a harmonious flavor profile.
Ideal for spring dinners, this plate is visually stunning and pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine.
Coconut Curry Scallops
Coconut Curry Scallops simmer in a fragrant, creamy coconut milk base infused with ginger, garlic, and a gentle heat from curry spices.
The scallops soak up the bold flavors while retaining their delicate texture, creating a luxurious and warming meal.
Serve with basmati rice or naan to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.
Scallops with Corn Salad
Scallops with Corn Salad is a refreshing summer dish where sweet, pan-seared scallops meet a zesty mix of grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, and herbs.
The natural sweetness of the corn enhances the oceanic richness of the scallops, while lime juice adds a bright finishing note.
It’s a light and colorful dinner perfect for warm evenings or casual entertaining.
Scallop Piccata
Scallop Piccata delivers a zesty punch with tender scallops bathed in a tangy lemon and caper butter sauce.
The bright citrus aroma mingles with garlic and herbs, enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallops.
Served over angel hair pasta or steamed vegetables, it’s a light yet flavorful meal perfect for any dinner occasion.
Scallops Provencal
Scallops Provencal brings a touch of southern France to your plate with fresh tomatoes, white wine, garlic, and herbs.
The aroma of thyme and sizzling butter is both rustic and elegant, wrapping the scallops in a cozy, savory warmth.
Enjoy it with crusty bread or couscous for a beautifully balanced and fragrant meal.
Blackened Scallops
Blackened Scallops are bold and smoky, coated in a fiery Cajun spice blend and seared until the edges are crisp and caramelized.
The rich scent of paprika and garlic fills the air, while the inside stays juicy and tender.
Pair them with coleslaw or creamy grits for a Southern-inspired dinner with a spicy kick.
Scallops Alfredo
Scallops Alfredo combines the richness of a creamy, parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce with the sweet, delicate bite of golden-seared scallops.
The velvety texture of the sauce clings to fettuccine, making every forkful indulgent and satisfying.
This comforting dish is perfect for cozy nights and pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables.
Scallop Gratin
Scallop Gratin is a baked treasure, where scallops nestle in a creamy white wine sauce beneath a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Hints of garlic, shallots, and fresh parsley create an inviting aroma that makes this dish feel like a celebration.
Serve it with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes for an elegant yet hearty dinner.
Teriyaki Scallops
Teriyaki Scallops offer a sweet and savory glaze with notes of soy, ginger, and garlic caramelized perfectly over tender scallops.
The glossy sauce clings to each scallop, locking in moisture and creating a rich umami experience.
Ideal with steamed rice or stir-fried veggies, this dish turns an ordinary evening into a flavorful feast.
Scallop Skewers
Scallop Skewers are a smoky, grilled delight that combines plump scallops with colorful veggies for a fresh and flavorful bite.
Each skewer is kissed with a citrus marinade, enhancing the sweetness of the scallops while adding a touch of zest.
Perfect for summer dinners, these skewers pair wonderfully with quinoa salad or grilled pineapple.
Scallop Ceviche
Scallop Ceviche is a light and tangy seafood dish where fresh scallops are marinated in lime juice and tossed with diced onion, tomato, and cilantro.
The citrus cures the scallops to a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture while releasing bright, refreshing aromas.
Serve it chilled with tortilla chips or avocado slices for a vibrant and healthy dinner.
Pan-Roasted Scallops
Pan-Roasted Scallops feature a perfect golden sear and tender, buttery centers with just a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper.
Cooked in high heat with minimal ingredients, this simple recipe allows the scallops’ natural flavor to shine.
Serve with a drizzle of browned butter or a squeeze of lemon for an elegant yet effortless meal.
Miso Scallops
Miso Scallops are umami-packed with a savory miso glaze that caramelizes as the scallops sear to golden perfection.
The glaze creates a balance of salty, sweet, and earthy notes that deepen with each bite.
Enjoy them with sautéed greens or sticky rice for a modern, flavor-forward dinner.
Scallop Chowder
Scallop Chowder is a creamy, comforting bowl filled with tender scallops, potatoes, and smoky bacon in a rich broth.
The scent of thyme and simmering cream fills the air, hinting at the hearty, ocean-kissed flavors inside.
It’s a soul-warming dish that stands on its own or pairs nicely with crusty sourdough.
Scallops with Spinach
Scallops with Spinach is a quick and nourishing meal where seared scallops rest on a bed of garlicky sautéed spinach.
The earthiness of the spinach balances the mild, sweet flavor of the scallops while adding a healthy twist.
This dish is light, low-carb, and perfect for a clean, satisfying dinner.
Dijon Scallops
Dijon Scallops offer a bold and tangy twist, featuring pan-seared scallops glazed in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce.
The sharpness of the mustard is mellowed by a splash of white wine and cream, creating a rich, balanced flavor.
Serve with roasted potatoes or green beans for a satisfying and elevated dinner.
Scallops Florentine
Scallops Florentine is a comforting classic where tender scallops are nestled in a bed of creamy spinach and baked to perfection.
The aroma of garlic, nutmeg, and bubbling cheese fills the kitchen with cozy warmth.
Perfect on its own or alongside buttery rice or crusty bread, this dish brings elegance to your dinner table.
Conclusion
From light and refreshing to rich and savory, these 26+ scallop dinner recipes cover every craving and cooking level.
Each dish celebrates the delicate, ocean-fresh flavor of scallops in its own unique way.
Try a few, mix and match sides, and turn your dinner routine into a seafood celebration.
