Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops from Seasons 52 feature tender, sweet sea scallops expertly caramelized and grilled to perfection, served with a golden-brown crust that enhances their natural flavor and juicy texture.
Equipments
- Grill
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Paper towels
- Plate or tray
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Sea scallops must be dry and patted thoroughly with paper towels before cooking to achieve a perfect caramelized crust. Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more authentic flavor that complements the scallops' sweetness. The olive oil should be high quality to prevent bitterness and improve the searing process. If you prefer a milder salt intensity, adjust the sea salt quantity to suit Your taste preferences. This Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops from Seasons 52 copycat menu delivers the delicate balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors characteristic of the restaurant's signature dish.
Instructions
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Add scallops to the bowl and gently toss to coat.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Using tongs, place scallops on hot grill.
- Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, basting with remaining marinade.
- Remove scallops when golden and caramelized, and just opaque in center.
- Transfer to a plate or tray.
- Garnish with chopped chives if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops from Seasons 52 deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and char, capturing the essence of expertly caramelized seafood. If fresh sea scallops are unavailable, frozen scallops can be used after thorough thawing, but pat them dry with paper towels to ensure proper caramelization and avoid steaming. When grilling without a dedicated grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can achieve a similar effect, though adjusting cooking time may be necessary to prevent overcooking. Use a basting brush to evenly coat scallops with olive oil and honey mixture, helping to enhance the caramelized crust while preserving the tender, juicy interior. Your kitchen knife should be sharp for trimming the scallops if needed, removing the side muscle to ensure even cooking and a more delicate texture.
Tips
Patting sea scallops dry before seasoning ensures they caramelize properly and prevents steaming on the grill. Using a basting brush to apply the marinade while grilling enhances the golden crust and keeps the scallops moist. Maintain medium-high heat on the grill and grill each side for 2-3 minutes until scallops are just opaque, avoiding overcooking which can make them rubbery. Remember to oil your grill grates well to prevent the delicate scallops from sticking and tearing when you turn them with tongs.
Nutritions
Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops provide a high-protein, low-fat option rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. The use of olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, while fresh lemon juice contributes a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants. Honey adds natural sweetness with trace minerals, enhancing flavor without refined sugars. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of lean protein and healthy fats, perfect for a nutritious seafood dish.
Storage
Store leftover caramelized grilled sea scallops in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Consume them within 2 days for optimal flavor and safety. Before reheating, allow your scallops to reach room temperature and warm gently to preserve their tender texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For a different flavor twist, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to add a subtle sweetness. You can also marinate the sea scallops in a mixture of soy sauce and grated ginger for an Asian-inspired variation. To ensure an even more caramelized crust, sear the scallops briefly in a hot cast-iron skillet before finishing them on the grill. Your grilled sea scallops will be perfectly tender and flavorful with these easy modifications.
Allergies
Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops contain shellfish, which is a common allergen known to cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes honey and lemon juice, which may trigger allergies in some people with sensitivities to bee products or citrus fruits. If you have a seafood allergy, it is crucial to avoid this dish to prevent the risk of allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
Why this recipe?
Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops at Seasons 52 restaurant are prized for their perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors enhanced by a rich caramelized crust. The tender texture of the scallops combined with a smoky char delivers a gourmet dining experience reminiscent of seaside freshness. Making a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this exquisite dish at home, tailored to your taste preferences while impressing guests with restaurant-quality seafood. Your culinary skills will shine as you recreate a signature dish known for its exceptional flavor and presentation.