Discover What to Serve with Scallops as a Main Course

Originally posted on December 4, 2023 @ 3:32 am

Wondering what to serve with scallops for dinner? This article will guide you through the best sides for scallops, including creamy risottos, tangy salads, and delicious veggies. Whether you’re serving bay scallops, pan-seared scallops, or bacon-wrapped scallops, you’ll find the perfect side dish here.

Key Takeaways:

• Scallops can be paired with a variety of side dishes to enhance their flavor and create a balanced meal.
• Some popular options include creamy risottos, tangy salads, and flavorful veggies.
• Rice, pasta, potatoes, greens, and peas & beans are great accompaniments for scallops.
• Don’t forget to experiment with sauces and wine pairings to elevate the flavors of your scallop dish.
• Get creative in the kitchen and explore different flavors to find your perfect combination with scallops as the star of the show.

Scrumptious Side Dishes for Fresh Scallops

When it comes to serving fresh scallops, there are a plethora of delectable side dishes that can elevate your meal to new heights. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy flavors or prefer lighter, tangy options, there’s something for everyone. Here are some tantalizing scallop side dish ideas to complement your main course:

Creamy Lemon Risotto with Mascarpone

Indulge in the luxurious combination of a creamy lemon risotto with velvety mascarpone. The tanginess of the lemon perfectly balances the scallops’ sweetness, while the rich and velvety texture of the risotto adds a touch of elegance to your plate.

Sautéed Zucchini and Squash

For a simple and savory side dish, sautéed zucchini and squash are the way to go. The tender-crisp texture of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the delicate flavors of the scallops, creating a harmonious balance on your palate.

Mashed Cauliflower

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, mashed cauliflower is a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Its creamy consistency and subtle flavors make it the perfect accompaniment to the succulent scallops.

Seared Scallops with Sweet Pea, Lemon & Tarragon Risotto

For a romantic dinner or special occasion, why not try seared scallops with a sweet pea, lemon, and tarragon risotto? The vibrant flavors of the sweet peas and zesty lemon combined with the aromatic tarragon create a symphony of tastes that will impress your guests.

Italian White Beans

For a hearty and satisfying side dish, Italian white beans are a great choice. Their creamy texture and mild flavor perfectly complement the delicate sweetness of the scallops, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Lemon Pasta

Add a burst of freshness to your plate with lemon pasta. The tangy and zesty flavors of the lemon zest and juice add brightness to the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the scallops.

Grilled Bell Peppers

For a burst of smoky flavor, grilled bell peppers are an excellent choice. Their charred and slightly sweet taste pairs beautifully with the succulent scallops, creating a delightful combination of flavors.

Creamy Parmesan Polenta

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of parmesan polenta. Its velvety texture and cheesy flavors provide a delicious base for your scallops, adding a touch of indulgence to your meal.

With these scrumptious side dishes, you can turn your fresh scallops into a truly memorable main course. Whether you prefer creamy risottos, tangy salads, or delicious veggies, there’s a perfect pairing for everyone. Explore these options and let your taste buds embark on a culinary adventure!

Scrumptious Scallops with Succotash

Succotash is a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with scallops as a main course. This classic American dish consists of a base of fresh corn and bell peppers combined with various beans, such as wax, lima, black, kidney, navy, chick, or edamame. The combination of sweet corn, tomato, beans, bacon, and peppers creates a delicious and smoky flavor profile that complements the delicate taste of scallops.

To enhance the flavor and add a surf-n-turf component to the meal, you can also include fresh bacon bits or sliced grilled sausage in your succotash. The freshness of the ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavors of this dish. Whether you’re serving bay scallops, pan-seared scallops, or bacon-wrapped scallops, succotash will elevate your scallop entree to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Table: Scrumptious Scallops with Succotash

Ingredients	Instructions
Fresh corn kernels	1. In a skillet, sauté the corn kernels until lightly browned.
Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)	2. Dice the bell peppers and add them to the skillet with the corn.
Assorted beans (wax, lima, black, kidney, navy, chick, or edamame)	3. Rinse and drain the beans, then add them to the skillet.
Bacon bits or sliced grilled sausage (optional)	4. If desired, cook bacon until crispy or grill sausage slices, then add them to the skillet.
Salt and pepper to taste	5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook until the flavors are well combined.
Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives)	6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Make sure to prepare the succotash using fresh ingredients to maximize the flavors. This side dish not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also provides a satisfying balance to the scallops. The combination of succulent scallops and scrumptious succotash is sure to impress your guests and create a memorable dining experience.

Making the Perfect Seared Scallops at Home

Seared scallops are a mouth-watering dish that can be easily made at home. The entire process of cooking scallops on the stovetop can be completed in under 8 minutes, making it an easy and quick main course option. To prepare the scallops, heat a pan on low-medium heat, pat them dry with a paper towel, and then sear them in oil or butter for a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Once you have mastered the basic technique, you can get creative with different flavors and develop your own scallop recipes.

If you’re looking for easy scallop meal ideas, consider adding a flavorful twist to your seared scallops. For a burst of citrusy freshness, try serving the scallops with a lemon garlic sauce. Simply melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic and lemon zest, and cook until fragrant. Drizzle the sauce over the seared scallops before serving. Another option is to create a savory brown butter sauce by melting butter in a pan until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Pour the brown butter sauce over the scallops to enhance their rich flavor.

When it comes to scallop dinner options, the possibilities are endless. You can serve seared scallops on a bed of creamy risotto, alongside roasted vegetables, or even in a light and refreshing salad. Experiment with different seasonings, such as cajun spice, lemon pepper, or smoked paprika, to give your scallops a unique and vibrant flavor. Don’t be afraid to explore new combinations and let your taste buds guide you in creating the perfect seared scallops at home.

Top 5 Side Dishes to Pair With Scallops

When serving scallops as a main course, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience and create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are the top 5 side dishes that pair perfectly with scallops:

Rice

Rice is a versatile option that can be used as a bed for seared scallops or made into a separate dish. Jasmine or brown rice works well to complement the flavors of the scallops and absorb any delicious sauces.

Pasta

Pasta offers countless possibilities for creating delicious scallop side dishes. Linguine, angel hair, spaghetti, or vermicelli can be cooked al dente and tossed with garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs to serve alongside the scallops.

Potatoes

Potatoes provide a versatile and flavorful accompaniment to scallops. Whether mashed, scalloped, roasted, or in medallion form, potatoes add a comforting element to the meal and complement the delicate flavors of the scallops.

Leafy Greens

Adding leafy greens to the meal not only adds freshness but also nutritional value. Iceberg, romaine, kale, or broccoli can be served as a side salad or lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil for a simple and vibrant accompaniment to scallops.

Peas & Beans

Peas and beans offer protein and a range of flavors that pair well with scallops. Sweet peas, snap peas, chickpeas, or black beans can be sautéed with butter and herbs or tossed into a vibrant salad for a satisfying side dish.

When serving scallops as the main course, consider these side dishes to create a complete and delicious meal that will impress your guests. Experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect match. Enjoy!

The Versatility of Sides: From Succulent Scallops to Scrumptious Sides

When it comes to serving scallops as the main course, the versatility of side dishes is key in elevating your dining experience. While the succulent scallops take center stage, the right sides can enhance their flavors and add depth to the meal. From creamy risottos to tangy salads and delicious veggies, there are endless possibilities to explore. Let’s take a closer look at some scallop side dish ideas and easy scallop meal ideas that will impress your taste buds.

One popular option is to pair scallops with a creamy risotto. The richness of the risotto complements the delicate flavor of the scallops, creating a luxurious combination. For a tangy twist, consider serving scallops with a refreshing salad. The acidity and crunch of the greens add a burst of freshness that balances well with the richness of the scallops. If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled or roasted vegetables can be the perfect accompaniment. The smoky flavors of the vegetables bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a delightful contrast.

To make your scallop meal even more interesting, consider adding some top scallop entree options to the mix. Pan-seared scallops with a citrus glaze or bacon-wrapped scallops with a maple glaze are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors. Another option is to incorporate international flavors, such as seared scallops with a soy ginger sauce or scallops in a coconut curry. These dishes offer a unique twist and showcase the versatility of scallops as a main course.

Table: Easy Scallop Meal Ideas

Scallop Recipe	Description
Scallops with Lemon Risotto	A classic pairing of creamy risotto and zesty scallops.
Seared Scallops with Soy Ginger Sauce	A fusion of Asian flavors that adds a touch of heat and tang.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Maple Glaze	A decadent combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Coconut Curry Scallops	A fragrant and spicy dish that transports you to the tropics.

As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to serving scallops as the main course. Whether you prefer creamy risottos, tangy salads, or exotic flavors, the versatility of sides allows you to create a meal that suits your taste preferences. So get creative in the kitchen and explore different scallop side dish ideas to take your dining experience to new heights!

Elevating Flavors: Sauces for Scallops

When it comes to serving scallops, the right sauce can take their flavors to new heights. Whether you prefer tangy, fresh, or indulgent flavors, there are a variety of sauces that pair perfectly with scallops. One classic choice is a creamy lemon butter sauce. The tanginess of the lemon complements the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the richness of the butter adds a luxurious touch. Drizzle this sauce over your scallops or serve it on the side for dipping.

If you’re looking for a zesty and aromatic option, gremolata is a fantastic choice. Made with a combination of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, this sauce adds brightness and freshness to your scallop dish. The citrusy notes from the lemon zest cut through the richness of the scallops, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a touch of indulgence, romesco sauce is a delicious option. This Spanish sauce is made with roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, and olive oil, resulting in a rich and savory flavor. The combination of smoky, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors pairs beautifully with the delicate taste of scallops. Serve this sauce alongside your scallops for a truly memorable dining experience.

Table: Sauces for Scallops

Sauce	Flavor Profile	Suggested Pairings
Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce	Tangy, Rich	Seared Scallops, Risotto
Gremolata	Zesty, Fresh	Pan-Seared Scallops, Linguine
Romesco Sauce	Rich, Savory	Bacon-Wrapped Scallops, Roasted Potatoes

Experimenting with different sauces allows you to customize the flavor profile of your scallop dish and add an extra layer of deliciousness. Whether you prefer tangy, zesty, or indulgent flavors, these sauces are sure to elevate your scallop meal to new heights. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the perfect pairing of sauces with your scallops.

Perfect Pairings: Wine Pairings for Scallops

When it comes to serving scallops as the main course, choosing the right wine pairing can elevate the dining experience to new heights. The delicate flavors of scallops call for wines that complement their richness and enhance their taste. Here are some top wine pairings that perfectly match the flavors of scallops:

Chardonnay

An un-oaked Chardonnay is a perfect match for scallop dishes. Its buttery notes and citrusy undertones complement the creamy texture of scallops, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. The crisp acidity of Chardonnay cuts through the richness of the scallops, enhancing their flavor and creating a delightful dining experience.

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris, with its light and refreshing profile, is another excellent choice for pairing with scallops. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, creating a balanced and enjoyable combination. The citrus flavors of Pinot Gris enhance the natural sweetness of scallops, creating a delightful interplay of flavors.

Sparkling Wine

If you’re looking to add a touch of celebration to your scallop dinner, sparkling wine is always a welcome choice. Its effervescence and lively bubbles create a festive atmosphere and enhance the dining experience. The crisp and fruity notes of sparkling wine complement the delicate flavors of scallops, making it a perfect pairing for special occasions.

When serving scallops as the main course, consider these wine pairings to create a memorable dining experience. The right wine can enhance the flavors of scallops, creating a harmonious balance that delights the palate. Cheers to the perfect pairing!

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to serving scallops as a main course, the side dish options are endless. Whether you prefer creamy risottos, tangy salads, flavorful veggies, succotash, or traditional accompaniments like rice, pasta, potatoes, greens, or peas & beans, there is a perfect side dish to complement your scallop mains. These dishes not only enhance the overall dining experience but also create a balanced and satisfying meal.

Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and explore different flavors. Experimenting with different side dishes allows you to find the perfect combination that suits your taste preferences and impresses your guests. Remember to choose fresh and high-quality ingredients to make the most out of your scallop meal.

So, the next time you’re wondering what to serve with scallops as a main course, refer back to this article for some scallop side dish ideas. Whether you decide to indulge in creamy risottos, enjoy the freshness of tangy salads, or savor the flavors of delicious veggies, your scallop dinner is sure to be a hit. Bon appétit!

Source Links

• https://stubbornseed.com/blog/5-best-side-dish-recipes-to-serve-with-scallops
• https://www.tastingtable.com/1061111/the-absolute-best-side-dishes-for-scallops/
• https://www.platingsandpairings.com/what-to-serve-with-scallops/