Oh my goodness, have I got something incredible to share with you! I’ve made these Scallop and Bacon Skewers at least a dozen times for my summer gatherings, and they’ve quickly become a crowd favorite. Trust me, the combination of succulent scallops wrapped in crispy bacon and drizzled with a zesty marinade is a game-changer. Every time I pull these skewers off the grill, my friends and family are left in awe, asking for the recipe and raving about how delicious they are. If you’re looking to elevate your BBQ game, keep reading — you won’t want to miss this!
Why You’ll Love This Scallop and Bacon Skewers
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is super simple and quick, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers.
- Flavor Explosion: The zesty marinade brings out the best in the scallops while the bacon adds a savory crunch.
- Impressive Presentation: These skewers not only taste great but look stunning on any platter, making you the star of the show.
- Versatile: You can customize the marinade and add different veggies or spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can marinate the scallops ahead of time, making the grilling process a breeze!
The Secret to Perfect Scallop and Bacon Skewers
The secret to achieving the perfect Scallop and Bacon Skewers lies in the marinade and the cooking technique. You want to ensure that you’re using fresh, high-quality scallops — they truly make a difference in flavor and texture. Marinating them for at least 30 minutes allows those zesty flavors to soak in. And here’s an insider tip: when wrapping the scallops in bacon, make sure to use thin-cut bacon. It crisps up beautifully without overpowering the delicate scallops. I promise anyone can master this recipe with just a little practice!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“These skewers were a hit at my BBQ! The combination of flavors was out of this world. I will definitely be making them again!” — Sarah H.
“I made these for a family gathering, and everyone raved about them! They’re easy to make and look so fancy!” — Jake L.
“I can’t believe how delicious these are! The marinade is perfect, and the bacon is the cherry on top. A must-try!” — Emily R.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Mango Marinade: Add some heat with diced jalapeños and mango puree in the marinade for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Garlic-Lemon Twist: Incorporate minced garlic and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
- Maple-Glazed Delight: Use maple syrup in the marinade for a sweet undertone that complements the bacon perfectly.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Skewer some bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the scallops for added color and nutrition.
- Bonus Tip: Try using scallops from your local seafood market for the freshest flavor!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Fresh scallops will give you the best flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently on low heat to avoid drying them out.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or prosciutto works well, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the scallops and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.
What’s the best way to grill these skewers?
Use medium-high heat and grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side until the scallops are opaque and the bacon is crispy. Avoid overcooking!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- If you plan to make them ahead of time, marinate and wrap the scallops, then refrigerate until grill time.
- For serving, consider a zesty dipping sauce on the side to enhance those flavors even more.
- Pair with a fresh salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Perfect Occasions for Scallop and Bacon Skewers
- Summer BBQs with friends and family.
- Romantic date nights on the patio.
- Holiday gatherings that need a touch of sophistication.
- Any festive occasion where you want to impress guests.
- Game day parties — they make for a fantastic appetizer!
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through all this deliciousness! Now, let’s get to the recipe so you can start grilling your way to a fabulous feast!
Scallop and Bacon Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 lb large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 8 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Make sure to soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to add diced bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This zesty marinade is key to the flavor of your Scallop and Bacon Skewers.
Step 2: Marinate the Scallops
Add the scallops to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential for that flavor infusion!
Step 3: Wrap the Scallops
Once marinated, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each scallop. Secure with a skewer. I like to use two scallops per skewer for a hearty bite!
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. This is where the magic happens! A hot grill will give you crispy bacon and perfectly cooked scallops.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the scallops are opaque and the bacon is crispy. Keep an eye on them — you want that perfect golden brown!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving. These skewers are best enjoyed warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top!
Nutrition Info: Each skewer provides a balanced bite of protein and flavor, making them a great addition to any meal.
Extra Guidance: If you’re grilling for a crowd, consider using a grill basket to keep everything together. And don’t forget to impress your guests with a beautiful presentation — it’s all about the wow factor!
Final Thoughts
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