Grilled bacon-wrapped scallops – just the name itself screams indulgence! Imagine perfectly seared, succulent scallops enveloped in crispy, smoky bacon. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re looking for an impressive appetizer for your next gathering or a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need:
- Fresh Scallops: 1 pound, patted dry (look for “dry” scallops, as they haven’t been treated with preservatives)
- Bacon: 1 pound, thinly sliced (you can use regular or thick-cut, depending on your preference)
- Skewers: Enough for threading the scallops (wooden skewers work best; soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, garlic powder, paprika
Equipment
- Grill: Gas or charcoal grill
- Small Bowl: For mixing
- Basting Brush: For applying olive oil
- Tongs: For flipping the scallops
- Meat Thermometer: (Optional) For checking doneness
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Scallops
- Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures even browning and prevents steaming on the grill.
- If the scallops are large, cut them in half horizontally.
Step 2: Wrapping the Scallops
- Cut each bacon slice in half.
- Wrap a piece of bacon around each scallop, securing it with a toothpick or small skewer.
Step 3: Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the bacon-wrapped scallops with the olive oil mixture, ensuring all sides are lightly coated.
Step 4: Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 204°C).
- Place the scallops on the grill grates, ensuring they are not touching.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
Step 5: Serving
- Remove the scallops from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.