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Summer is the perfect season to indulge in light, flavorful, and elegant meals that highlight the freshness of the ingredients.
Scallops, with their delicate sweetness and tender texture, are a versatile seafood option that shines in summer dishes.
Whether you’re grilling, searing, or pairing them with vibrant vegetables and zesty citrus, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to prepare scallops for warm-weather meals.
With over 28 summer scallop recipes, you can explore various flavors, from savory to tangy, making them perfect for everything from casual beachside dinners to more formal gatherings.
Dive into these delightful scallop recipes and elevate your summer meals with ease.
28+ Easy Summer Scallop Recipes for Light, Flavorful Meals
With these 28+ summer scallop recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this sweet, succulent seafood during the warmer months.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes offer a range of flavors and cooking techniques that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
From tangy citrus-glazed scallops to creamy risottos, each dish is designed to complement the season’s best ingredients, making your summer meals even more memorable.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with these recipes and make scallops the star of your summer dining.
Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter
Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter is the perfect dish to highlight the delicate sweetness of fresh scallops, seared to a golden brown perfection.
The moment they hit the pan, the scallops sizzle, releasing a delicious aroma that blends with the tangy, rich lemon butter sauce.
Each scallop is tender and juicy on the inside, with a crisp, flavorful exterior, while the lemon butter adds a refreshing citrusy finish.
This dish is an ideal summer appetizer or a light main course, paired with a fresh salad or served alongside steamed vegetables.
Scallop and Mango Salsa
Scallop and Mango Salsa combines the sweetness of fresh, tender scallops with the bright, tropical flavors of ripe mango and a kick of cilantro.
The juicy mango salsa adds a refreshing, vibrant contrast to the scallops’ rich, buttery texture, creating a mouthwatering balance of flavors.
Each bite delivers a burst of citrus, sweet, and savory notes, with a hint of heat from chili and a touch of brightness from lime.
This dish is perfect for a summer appetizer, served on its own or over a bed of greens, making it a fresh and light option for warm weather meals.
Garlic Herb Scallops
Garlic Herb Scallops are an aromatic and flavorful way to enjoy tender, perfectly seared scallops, infused with the bold, savory flavors of garlic and fresh herbs.
The garlic sizzles in the pan, releasing a rich fragrance, while the scallops cook quickly to a delicate tenderness.
Each scallop is coated in a savory garlic-butter sauce, with the fresh herbs adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery flavor of the scallops.
Serve these scallops over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or as an elegant addition to your summer dinner spread.
Grilled Scallops with Avocado
Grilled Scallops with Avocado is a perfect balance of textures, combining the smoky flavor of grilled scallops with the creamy richness of ripe avocado.
As the scallops grill, they develop a charred exterior while maintaining their juicy, tender interior, complemented by the smoothness of the avocado.
The dish is finished off with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, which adds a refreshing burst of flavor.
This dish makes for a light yet satisfying summer meal, perfect for a grill night or a beachside gathering.
Scallops with Tomato Basil Sauce
Scallops with Tomato Basil Sauce is a delightful summer dish that brings together tender scallops and a tangy, herbed tomato sauce that’s both vibrant and savory.
The scallops are pan-seared until golden and crisp, while the rich tomato sauce simmers with fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of olive oil.
Each bite offers a savory, buttery scallop paired with the bright, sweet acidity of the tomatoes, creating a dish that’s both comforting and fresh.
This dish is perfect over pasta, with crusty bread, or served as a main course alongside a crisp salad.
Scallop Ceviche
Scallop Ceviche is a refreshing, light dish that combines the sweetness of fresh scallops with the zing of lime juice and the fresh flavors of cilantro, onion, and jalapeño.
As the scallops “cook” in the citrus marinade, they become tender and flavorful, absorbing the tangy acidity and the aromatic essence of the fresh herbs and spices.
The dish is bursting with refreshing, zesty flavors that are both light and satisfying, making it the perfect appetizer or side for any summer gathering.
Enjoy this ceviche on its own or paired with tortilla chips for a crisp, flavorful snack on a warm day.
Scallops with Pesto
Scallops with Pesto is a bold and flavorful dish where perfectly seared scallops are paired with a vibrant, herby pesto sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan.
The combination of the rich, buttery scallops and the fresh, nutty pesto creates a harmonious balance of flavors, each bite leaving you wanting more.
The fragrant basil and garlic in the pesto infuse each scallop with aromatic freshness, while the creamy texture of the sauce complements the tender seafood.
This dish is perfect for a light, yet elegant dinner, served with pasta, grilled vegetables, or even on its own for a simple, satisfying meal.
Scallop Tacos
Scallop Tacos offer a delightful twist on the traditional taco, featuring seared scallops as the star ingredient, topped with a zesty slaw and fresh salsa.
The crispy, golden scallops provide a tender bite, perfectly complemented by the crunch of fresh cabbage, tangy lime, and a hint of heat from jalapeño.
Each bite is a burst of flavor with the savory scallops, refreshing vegetables, and a touch of creamy sauce that brings everything together.
These tacos are ideal for a fun, vibrant summer meal, served with a side of chips or a light salad for a complete dish.
Scallops with Corn Salsa
Scallops with Corn Salsa is a summer-inspired dish that pairs sweet, seared scallops with a fresh, zesty corn salsa made with tomatoes, cilantro, and lime.
The sweetness of the scallops shines through as they are complemented by the crunch and sweetness of the corn, while the salsa adds a tangy, vibrant burst of flavor.
The combination of flavors and textures—juicy scallops, crunchy corn, and fresh herbs—creates a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for warm days.
This dish works wonderfully as a light main course or appetizer, and is perfect for serving at a summer dinner party or BBQ.
Spicy Scallop Stir-fry
Spicy Scallop Stir-fry is an exciting dish where tender scallops are quickly stir-fried with fresh vegetables and a spicy, savory sauce made from ginger, garlic, and chili.
The scallops soak up the bold flavors of the sauce while maintaining their delicate texture, while the vegetables add a satisfying crunch and freshness to the dish.
Each bite offers a burst of heat, balanced by the sweetness of the scallops, making for a savory and spicy experience that will excite your taste buds.
This stir-fry is perfect over a bed of rice or noodles, offering a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal for any summer night.
Lemon Garlic Scallops
Lemon Garlic Scallops is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the sweetness of scallops with the zesty freshness of lemon and the savory richness of garlic.
The scallops are seared until golden and crisp on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside, enhanced by the aromatic garlic and bright citrus.
The lemon adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
This recipe makes a great light dinner or appetizer, and pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Scallops in White Wine Sauce
Scallops in White Wine Sauce is a rich, elegant dish where tender scallops are simmered in a silky white wine sauce with garlic, shallots, and a touch of cream.
The sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops while providing a creamy, savory base that envelops each bite.
The subtle acidity of the white wine and the aromatic garlic create a delightful contrast to the richness of the sauce, making every mouthful a luxurious experience.
Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making it the perfect indulgent summer meal.
Scallop Salad
Scallop Salad features perfectly seared scallops paired with a refreshing blend of mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
The tender, juicy scallops provide a delicious contrast to the crisp vegetables, while the vinaigrette adds a tangy finish that brightens the dish.
Each bite offers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors with the rich, sweet scallops complementing the acidity of the dressing.
This light yet satisfying salad makes an ideal starter or a healthy, refreshing summer lunch.
Scallop Skewers
Scallop Skewers are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy tender scallops, marinated in a savory mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection.
The scallops develop a smoky char on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside, with each skewer offering a burst of herby, garlicky flavor.
These skewers are perfect for summer grilling, and their simplicity makes them a hit at BBQs or casual gatherings.
Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Scallop Risotto
Scallop Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender seared scallops with rich, buttery risotto, finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
The creamy texture of the risotto perfectly complements the juicy scallops, while the lemon adds a refreshing brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Each bite offers a satisfying mix of savory scallops and velvety rice, with the rich butteriness of the risotto enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallops.
This dish makes an elegant main course for a special summer meal or dinner party.
Coconut Scallops
Coconut Scallops combine the delicate flavor of fresh scallops with the tropical sweetness of coconut, resulting in a flavorful and exotic summer dish.
The scallops are lightly coated in coconut flakes and pan-seared until golden, with each bite offering a crispy, slightly sweet outer layer that contrasts perfectly with the tender, buttery scallops inside.
The mild coconut flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, making it a tropical treat that’s both savory and sweet.
This dish works well as an appetizer or as part of a tropical-inspired main course.
Scallop and Spinach Pasta
Scallop and Spinach Pasta combines tender scallops with wilted spinach and pasta, all tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce.
The scallops are seared to a golden brown, offering a delicious contrast to the tender spinach and perfectly cooked pasta, while the garlic oil brings it all together with a savory richness.
Each bite is a balance of savory scallops, earthy spinach, and a delicate, flavorful sauce that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
This is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light summer meal.
Scallop Casserole
Scallop Casserole brings together tender scallops baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce with breadcrumbs for a rich, comforting dish.
The scallops are smothered in a decadent sauce made from cream, Parmesan, and garlic, then baked until golden and bubbling.
The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy filling balances the rich, savory scallops with a luxurious texture.
This casserole makes for an indulgent and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Scallop Carpaccio
Scallop Carpaccio is an elegant, light dish featuring thinly sliced fresh scallops drizzled with olive oil, lemon, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
The delicate scallops melt in your mouth, their natural sweetness enhanced by the zesty citrus and the smooth, rich olive oil.
This simple yet refined dish is perfect for a summer appetizer or light starter, allowing the freshness of the scallops to shine through.
Serve it with a crisp white wine for a truly refreshing dining experience.
Scallop Fritters
Scallop Fritters offer a crispy, golden exterior with a tender, succulent scallop interior, paired with a tangy dipping sauce.
The batter is lightly seasoned, allowing the scallops’ natural sweetness to shine, while the crispy fritters provide a delightful crunch.
Each bite combines savory scallops with the savory crunch of the fritter, complemented by the tanginess of the dipping sauce.
These fritters are perfect as an appetizer or party snack, ideal for casual gatherings or an elegant seafood feast.
Scallop and Asparagus
Scallop and Asparagus brings together the delicate sweetness of seared scallops with the crisp, earthy flavor of tender asparagus.
The scallops are perfectly seared, creating a golden crust, while the asparagus is lightly cooked to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
Together, the scallops and asparagus are finished with a light lemon and butter sauce, creating a bright, fresh, and satisfying combination.
This dish makes a wonderful, elegant summer main course, perfect for a light dinner or a special occasion.
Scallop Soup
Scallop Soup is a creamy, rich soup that features tender scallops in a velvety broth made from cream, garlic, and fresh herbs.
The scallops are gently simmered in the soup, releasing their sweetness and tender texture into the broth, while the cream provides a smooth, comforting base.
Each spoonful is a delightful mix of creamy texture and savory seafood flavor, with a hint of aromatic garlic and herbs.
This soup makes for an indulgent, comforting meal, ideal for cool summer evenings or a special seafood dinner.
Scallop Bruschetta
Scallop Bruschetta is a delightful twist on the classic, featuring pan-seared scallops served atop crispy toasted bread with fresh tomato, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
The juicy scallops contrast perfectly with the crunch of the toasted bread and the refreshing, tangy tomato topping.
Each bite offers a burst of fresh, savory flavors, with the balsamic glaze adding a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish.
This recipe works beautifully as an appetizer or a light meal, ideal for summer entertaining or a casual dinner.
Scallop Stir-fry
Scallop Stir-fry is a quick and flavorful dish, combining seared scallops with colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory stir-fry sauce.
The scallops are tender and juicy, while the vegetables add a satisfying crunch, creating a well-balanced, healthy dish with vibrant textures and fresh flavors.
Each bite is filled with a savory umami flavor from the sauce, complemented by the sweetness of the scallops and the freshness of the vegetables.
This stir-fry is perfect for a light, nutritious dinner and pairs well with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Scallop Tostadas
Scallop Tostadas offer a delightful crunch from the crispy tostada shells, topped with tender, seared scallops, fresh avocado, and a tangy lime dressing.
The richness of the scallops is perfectly balanced by the cool creaminess of the avocado, while the lime adds a refreshing burst of flavor.
Each bite is a combination of crunchy, creamy, and savory textures, with the scallops adding a touch of elegance to the casual tostada.
These tostadas are perfect for a fun summer meal, offering a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and serve.
Scallop Skillet
Scallop Skillet is a simple yet elegant dish, where scallops are pan-seared to perfection and served with a rich garlic butter sauce.
The scallops are golden on the outside while remaining tender inside, and the buttery sauce enhances their delicate sweetness with a savory, aromatic finish.
Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor with the natural sweetness of the scallops, making it a comforting and luxurious dish.
This skillet recipe is ideal for a quick yet impressive dinner, served over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Scallop Casserole
Scallop Casserole is a decadent dish where scallops are baked in a creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese and a golden, crispy topping.
The scallops are enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce, while the breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch and a touch of savory flavor.
The creamy, cheesy casserole brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops while adding layers of texture and flavor, making each bite satisfying and indulgent.
This casserole is perfect for a cozy, comforting dinner and is sure to impress at any gathering or family meal.
Scallop and Pea Risotto
Scallop and Pea Risotto features creamy, buttery risotto paired with tender scallops and sweet peas for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
The scallops are seared to perfection, providing a crisp texture that complements the soft, creamy risotto. The peas add a pop of sweetness, balancing the richness of the dish.
Each spoonful offers a velvety combination of flavors and textures, with the scallops shining through and the risotto offering a rich, comforting base.
This dish makes for a deliciously indulgent main course, perfect for a summer dinner party or a special occasion.
Conclusion
As summer unfolds, it’s the perfect time to celebrate fresh seafood and the natural sweetness of scallops.
With over 28 unique recipes to choose from, you can explore a variety of ways to enjoy scallops in the season’s warmth.
These dishes bring together vibrant flavors, fresh herbs, and zesty dressings that pair perfectly with the lightness of summer.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a romantic dinner, or just preparing a simple meal for yourself, these scallop recipes are sure to make your summer meals unforgettable.
Enjoy experimenting with these delicious options and elevate your seafood game.
