Description
Deliciously tender and flavorful grilled scallops marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, honey, lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika, perfect for a quick summer meal or elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for grill
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Main
- 1¼ pounds large scallops
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh flat parsley leaves
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt until well combined to form a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the scallops: Place the scallops into a large zip-top plastic bag, pour in the marinade, seal the bag tightly, and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse the scallops.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, and brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent the scallops from sticking during cooking.
- Prepare scallops on skewers: Remove the scallops from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Thread the scallops evenly onto 6 skewers, ensuring they are spaced to cook evenly.
- Grill the scallops: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the scallops are opaque and slightly charred but tender inside.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled scallops to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, minced parsley, and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an added citrusy zing.
Notes
- Marinating scallops for 1 hour is ideal, but avoid marinating for much longer as the acid in lemon juice can start to ‘cook’ the scallops.
- Use large fresh scallops for best texture and flavor.
- Oiling the grill grates well prevents scallops from sticking and helps achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
