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Grilled Scallop Tail
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Scallop Tail

Pecten maximus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled scallop tails are a delicacy known for their sweet, tender meat and rich flavor. They are low in calories and high in protein, making them a nutritious seafood choice.

Also known as:
Scallop MeatSea Scallops
Scientific NamePecten maximus
Region of OriginNorth Atlantic Ocean

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories112 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.5g
Protein
20g(93%)
Fats
1g(5%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B121.2 µg (50%)
Vitamin D0.5 µg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium38 µg (69%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High in selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Provides essential vitamins like B12 and D, crucial for energy metabolism and bone health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish.
!Improperly cooked scallops can lead to foodborne illnesses.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled with a light seasoning of lemon and herbs to enhance their natural flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose scallops that are firm, moist, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid those with a strong fishy smell or dry appearance.

How to Store

Store scallops in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume them within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Myths vs Realities

MythScallops are high in cholesterol and should be avoided.
RealityWhile scallops do contain cholesterol, they are low in saturated fat and can be part of a balanced diet.
MythAll scallops are the same.
RealityThere are different types of scallops, such as sea scallops and bay scallops, each with distinct flavors and sizes.
MythYou can only eat scallops in fancy restaurants.
RealityScallops can be easily prepared at home and enjoyed in various dishes.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Grilled Scallop Tails

These grilled scallop tails are marinated in a zesty lemon herb mixture, delivering a fresh and vibrant flavor perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Add scallop tails to the marinade and let sit for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque.

Spicy Mango Salsa Grilled Scallops

Enjoy the sweet and spicy combination of grilled scallop tails topped with a fresh mango salsa, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced mango, jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Season scallop tails with salt and grill on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Serve scallops topped with the mango salsa.

Garlic Butter Grilled Scallops with Asparagus

Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter grilled scallops served alongside tender asparagus for a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Melt butter in a small pan, add garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
  2. 2. Season scallops and asparagus with salt and pepper, then grill for 2-3 minutes each side.
  3. 3. Drizzle garlic butter over grilled scallops and asparagus before serving.

Mediterranean Grilled Scallops with Quinoa Salad

A healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring grilled scallops served over a refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, feta, olive oil, and vinegar.
  2. 2. Season scallops with salt and pepper, then grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve scallops over the quinoa salad.

Coconut Lime Grilled Scallops

These tropical coconut lime grilled scallops are infused with coconut milk and lime, offering a deliciously unique flavor profile.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix coconut milk, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. 2. Marinate scallops in the mixture for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Herbed Pesto Grilled Scallops

Grilled scallops are enhanced with a vibrant homemade herb pesto, making for a flavorful and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix scallops with pesto and lemon juice, and let marinate for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. Preheat the grill and cook scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve immediately with extra pesto drizzled on top.

Asian-Inspired Grilled Scallops with Sesame Slaw

These grilled scallops are paired with a crunchy sesame slaw, combining flavors of the East for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cups cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup carrots, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate scallops in soy sauce and sesame oil for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Toss cabbage, carrots, and sesame seeds together for the slaw and serve alongside scallops.

Grilled Scallops with Avocado Salsa

Delight in the creamy texture of avocado salsa paired with perfectly grilled scallop tails for a nutritious and delicious dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix avocado, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper for the salsa.
  2. 2. Season scallops with salt and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Top grilled scallops with avocado salsa before serving.

Chili Lime Grilled Scallops with Zucchini Noodles

These grilled scallops are spiced with chili and lime, served over fresh zucchini noodles for a low-carb, healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season scallops with chili powder, lime juice, and salt, then marinate for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve on a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles.

Grilled Scallops with Tomato Basil Relish

Fresh grilled scallops are topped with a vibrant tomato basil relish, making for a delightful and healthy seafood dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb scallop tails
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Combine diced tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the relish.
  2. 2. Season scallops and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve scallops topped with the tomato basil relish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I cook scallop tails?

Scallop tails can be grilled, baked, or sautéed. Ensure they are cooked until opaque and firm to the touch.

Are scallops healthy?

Yes, scallops are low in calories and high in protein, making them a healthy seafood option.

What do scallops taste like?

Scallops have a sweet, delicate flavor with a tender texture, often described as buttery.

How do I know if scallops are fresh?

Fresh scallops should have a mild ocean smell, be firm to the touch, and have a slightly translucent appearance.

Can I eat scallops raw?

While some people enjoy raw scallops in dishes like ceviche, it's important to ensure they are sourced from reputable suppliers to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.

What is the best way to season scallops?

Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh herbs work best to enhance their natural flavor.

How long do cooked scallops last in the fridge?

Cooked scallops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Are scallops sustainable?

Sustainability varies by source; look for scallops certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council.