There's nothing quite like the flavor of perfectly grilled scallops. For barbecue enthusiasts, learning how to cook scallops on gas grill opens up a world of culinary delight. Scallops, with their delicate texture and mildly sweet flavor, are the perfect seafood to surface your grilling tools and flash your cooking skills. If you're ready to elevate your grilling game, this comprehensive guide will teach you exactly how to cook scallops on a gas grill to perfection.

Why Grill Scallops?

Grilling scallops accentuates their natural sweetness, adding a wonderful smoky flavor that enhances their tender interior. Also, it's a quick and healthy cooking method that fits well into various diets. Additionally, grilling scallops is incredibly easy once you get the hang of it, making it a suitable option for everyone from beginners to seasoned grill masters.

What You Need

Before diving into how to cook scallops on gas grill, let's first gather our tools and ingredients.

Equipment

• Gas Grill
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

Preparing the Scallops

The first step in learning how to cook scallops on gas grill is proper preparation. Start by rinsing the scallops under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that coveted, crusty sear.

Inspecting and Cleaning

After drying, inspect each scallop to remove the small side muscle (also known as the foot). This muscle can be a bit tough, so gently peel it away with your fingers. Always handle scallops delicately to avoid damaging their tender flesh. If you couldn't get fresh scallops, frozen ones will also do as long as they are properly thawed.

Marinating and Seasoning

Once cleaned, place the scallops on your cutting board and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over them, making sure they are generously coated. For an extra burst of flavor, grate some lemon zest over the scallops and add some chopped fresh herbs if desired. Let the scallops rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Prepping the Gas Grill

Knowing how to use your grill can significantly improve the outcome of how to cook scallops on gas grill. Start by preheating your gas grill to medium-high heat (around 450 to 500F). A clean, hot grill ensures an even cook and prevents scallops from sticking.

Cleaning and Oiling the Grill Grates

As the grill heats up, thoroughly clean the grill grates with a wire brush. Residual food particles can contribute to sticking. Once clean, use a pair of tongs to rub a paper towel soaked in a high-smoke-point oil (like vegetable or canola) over the grill grates. This step creates a non-stick surface, helping to ensure your scallops remain intact and beautifully seared.

Grilling the Scallops

Now comes the exciting part of how to cook scallops on gas grillthe actual grilling! Place the scallops on the grill grates, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows heat to circulate evenly, giving each scallop a perfect sear.

Cooking Time

Scallops cook quickly, needing about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Resist the urge to constantly flip or move the scallops. This will hinder the development of that delicious crust. Instead, let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. When they're ready to flip, they'll release easily from the grill grates. Flip and allow the other side to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Checking for Doneness

You'll know the scallops are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145F. Remember, overcooking scallops can make them rubbery, so carefully monitor their progress.

Serving and Enjoying Your Scallops

Your beautifully grilled scallops are now ready to serve! Transfer them to a serving platter and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for that final touch of flavor. These scallops are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with sides like grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Garnishing

For an extra visual appeal, garnish with additional lemon zest or chopped herbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant burst of color to your dish.

Pairing

Consider pairing your grilled scallops with a crisp white wine or a light ros. The refreshing notes of these wines complement the sweetness of the scallops, creating a balanced and delightful meal.

Cleaning Up

While cleaning up is the least exciting part of grilling, proper maintenance of your equipment ensures a longer lifespan. After the grill has cooled down, scrub the grates clean once more and wipe down the surfaces. Re-oiling the grill grates can also help prevent rust. Do not forget to clean your cutting board and knife properly.

• Cookware Cleaner
• Cutting Board Oil

Final Thoughts

Grilling scallops may initially seem intimidating, but once you master how to cook scallops on gas grill, it becomes a gratifying experience. Not only are these delightful morsels easy to prepare, but they also offer a dining experience that can stand up to even the fanciest restaurant offerings. So fire up that gas grill, have fun experimenting with flavors, and enjoy the delicious results!

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For more grilling tips and recipes, check out our guides on cooking squash, cooking NY strip steak, and many more!

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