These Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette are a light, elegant, and incredibly quick summer dinner idea. Marinated with olive oil, citrus zest, and a hint of coriander, then grilled to perfection and served with a smoky tomato vinaigrette, this dish is refreshing, healthy, and perfect for warm evenings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound large sea scallops

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

• Zest of 1 orange (or lemon or lime)

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

• ½ teaspoon ground coriander (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Skewers (if needed)

• Tomato Vinaigrette (optional, for serving)

• Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or cilantro, for garnish)

• Citrus wedges (orange, lime, or lemon)

Directions

1. Soak wooden skewers in water if using. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

2. Pat scallops very dry with paper towels and place in a bowl.

3. Drizzle scallops lightly with olive oil. Add citrus zest, minced garlic, coriander (if using), and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat. Marinate for 15 minutes while the grill heats.

4. If necessary, skewer the scallops using two skewers to prevent rotation.

5. Grease the grill grates well. Place scallops on the grill and cover. Grill for about 2–3 minutes per side until they have nice grill marks and are just cooked through (cooking time varies by scallop size).

6. Serve scallops hot with a squeeze of fresh citrus, optional Tomato Vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Enjoy with your favorite summer sides like grilled veggies, leafy salads, or creamy risotto.

Nutrients

(Approximate per serving, 4 scallops without dressing)

• Calories: 112 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 4.4g

• Protein: 13.8g

• Fat: 4.1g

• Saturated Fat: 0.6g

• Fiber: 0.1g

• Sugar: 0g

• Cholesterol: 27.2mg

• Sodium: 518.6mg

Why Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette Are So Popular

Scallops have long been a prized seafood delicacy for their tender texture and delicate, slightly sweet flavor. When grilled, scallops take on a lightly charred, smoky note that enhances their natural sweetness while keeping them incredibly juicy inside. The vibrant tomato vinaigrette adds another layer of complexity with its tangy, smoky, and slightly spicy profile. The dish’s quick preparation time and impressive presentation make it popular for both casual backyard barbecues and more formal summer entertaining. In a world where quick, healthy, and delicious meals are in high demand, Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette truly shine.

Perfect for Quick Summer Dinners

There’s something magical about grilling outdoors on a warm evening, and scallops are the perfect protein for this setting. They cook rapidly, needing only a few minutes per side, and their mild flavor pairs beautifully with fresh summer ingredients. Preparing the marinade and vinaigrette in advance makes this dish even more convenient. It’s ideal for a no-fuss, no-mess dinner that still feels special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a small gathering, Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette offer a satisfying yet light meal that keeps you energized and refreshed in the summer heat.

A Celebration of Fresh Ingredients

This recipe highlights the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients treated with care. High-quality sea scallops are the star, providing a luxurious yet naturally low-fat source of protein. Olive oil brings healthy fats and a rich mouthfeel, while citrus zest infuses the marinade with bright, aromatic notes that enhance the scallops’ sweetness. The optional hint of coriander offers a subtle warmth and earthiness. Meanwhile, the tomato vinaigrette, made with smoky roasted tomatoes and a touch of acidity, provides a vibrant counterpoint to the buttery scallops. Topped with freshly chopped herbs and a squeeze of citrus, this dish bursts with layered, clean flavors that showcase summer at its best.

Adaptability and Variations

One of the wonderful aspects of Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette is how easily the recipe can be customized. You can adjust the citrus component by choosing between orange, lemon, or lime zest, each bringing its own unique aromatic character. If you love spice, a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can be added to the vinaigrette for a bolder kick. For a slightly richer version, a small pat of herb butter can be melted over the grilled scallops just before serving. Alternatively, swapping the tomato vinaigrette for a mango salsa or basil pesto creates an entirely new flavor experience while keeping the preparation simple and fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette offer a wealth of nutritional advantages, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome, balanced meal. Scallops are an outstanding source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle repair and overall health. They are also rich in important nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health and cognitive function. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidant compounds. Tomatoes are a fantastic source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive properties. Together, these ingredients create a meal that nourishes your body while delighting your senses.

Tips for the Best Grilled Scallops

Achieving perfectly grilled scallops is all about technique. First and foremost, patting the scallops very dry with paper towels ensures that they will develop a nice sear instead of steaming. Marinating them briefly with olive oil and citrus zest enhances their flavor without overpowering their natural sweetness. When skewering scallops, using two parallel skewers can help prevent them from spinning, making them easier to turn on the grill. Ensuring the grill grates are well-oiled prevents sticking and promotes beautiful grill marks. Watching the scallops closely during cooking is crucial, as they cook very quickly—usually in just two to three minutes per side. Properly cooked scallops should be opaque throughout but still tender and moist in the center.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a simple and refreshing meal, pair them with a light arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. They also complement summer sides like grilled corn on the cob, herbed couscous, or a chilled quinoa salad. For a heartier plate, serve the scallops atop creamy risotto, buttery polenta, or a mound of garlic mashed potatoes. Citrus wedges on the side allow diners to add a burst of brightness to their plates. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, crisp rosé makes the perfect wine pairing, enhancing the fresh, summery flavors of the dish.

The Allure of Grilled Seafood

Grilling seafood is a time-honored tradition in many coastal regions around the world. It celebrates the natural flavors of the sea while offering a cooking method that’s quick, healthy, and infuses food with a subtle smoky depth. Grilled scallops, in particular, are prized for their luxurious texture and mild sweetness, qualities that are enhanced rather than masked by grilling. Their versatility and quick cooking time make them a favorite choice for seafood lovers and chefs alike. With increasing interest in healthful, nutrient-rich eating, grilled seafood dishes like these scallops continue to grow in popularity, offering a delicious way to enjoy lean protein and vibrant summer flavors.

Reasons to Love Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette

There are countless reasons to make this recipe a regular feature in your summer meal rotation. It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, perfect for nights when you want something impressive with minimal effort. It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with lean protein and heart-healthy fats. It offers a stunning balance of sweet, smoky, tangy, and herbal flavors. The beautiful presentation makes it perfect for entertaining, while the wholesome ingredients make it a feel-good choice for family meals. Plus, its adaptability allows you to tweak the flavors to your liking or create variations depending on the ingredients you have on hand. Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette embody everything wonderful about summer dining: light, flavorful, fresh, and unforgettable.

Conclusion

Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette offer a perfect marriage of simplicity and sophistication. The sweet, tender scallops, kissed by the grill and brightened with citrus and herbs, pair beautifully with the vibrant, smoky tomato vinaigrette. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish makes seafood feel effortlessly elegant without the stress of complicated preparation. Its health benefits, adaptability, and crowd-pleasing flavor profile make it an ideal choice for summer dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave something fresh and light. Whether served at a casual backyard gathering or an intimate dinner under the stars, Grilled Scallops with Tomato Vinaigrette promise to delight and satisfy with every delicious bite.