How to Grill Scallops on Big Green Egg

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game?

In this article, we’ll show you how to grill scallops on a Big Green Egg, the ultimate outdoor cooking machine.

You’ll learn everything from choosing the right scallops to preparing the Big Green Egg for grilling perfection.

We’ll guide you through seasoning the scallops and share expert grilling techniques to ensure a delicious result.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with perfectly grilled scallops that will leave them craving for more.

Choosing the Right Scallops

You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing the freshest scallops for grilling on your Big Green Egg. Sourcing fresh scallops is essential to ensure the best flavor and texture.

When it comes to scallops, there are two main types you can choose from: sea scallops and bay scallops.

Sea scallops are larger in size, ranging from 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. They have a sweet and succulent flavor with a firm texture. These scallops are perfect for grilling as they hold their shape well and develop a beautiful sear on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

On the other hand, bay scallops are smaller, measuring around ½ inch in diameter. They have a delicate and sweeter taste compared to sea scallops. Bay scallops are also more tender, making them ideal for quick cooking methods like sautéing or adding to pasta dishes.

When sourcing fresh scallops, opt for those that are dry-packed rather than wet-packed. Dry-packed scallops are not soaked in any chemical solutions, ensuring a pure and natural flavor. Look for scallops that are firm, plump, and have a slightly glossy appearance. Avoid scallops that appear slimy, discolored, or have a strong fishy odor.

Choosing the right scallops is the first step to creating a delicious grilled scallop dish on your Big Green Egg.

Preparing the Big Green Egg

To get started, make sure your Big Green Egg is preheated to the desired temperature. Cleaning the Big Green Egg is an important step before grilling scallops. Remove any leftover ash or debris from the charcoal. You can use a grill brush to scrub the grates and remove any stuck-on residue. It’s also a good idea to check the gasket and make sure it’s clean and intact.

After cleaning, it’s time to light the Big Green Egg. Fill the firebox with charcoal, leaving enough space for airflow. You can use different methods to light the charcoal, such as using a chimney starter or an electric starter. Avoid using lighter fluid as it can impart a chemical taste to your food. Once the charcoal is lit, let it burn for about 10-15 minutes until it’s covered with a layer of white ash.

Now that your Big Green Egg is preheated and ready, it’s time to start grilling those delicious scallops. But before you do, let’s take a look at this table to guide you on the temperature and cooking time:

Seasoning the Scallops

Make sure you’ve seasoned the scallops with your preferred seasonings before placing them on the preheated grill. Seasoning the scallops is a crucial step in enhancing their flavor and ensuring a delicious end result.

Here are some marinating options and alternative cooking methods to consider:

Marinating options:

• Lemon and herb marinade: Combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs like parsley and thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let the scallops marinate in this mixture for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with tangy and herbaceous flavors.
• Teriyaki marinade: Mix together soy sauce, mirin, minced ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil. This marinade adds a sweet and savory Asian twist to the scallops.

Alternative cooking methods:

• Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place the seasoned scallops in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
• Broiling: Preheat the broiler and place the seasoned scallops on a broiling pan. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are nicely browned and cooked through.

Grilling Techniques for Scallops

Ready to take your grilling skills to the next level? Grilling scallops can be a delicious and impressive addition to any barbecue, but it requires some finesse. To achieve perfectly seared scallops, there are a few grilling tips you should keep in mind.

First, make sure your grill is preheated to a high heat. Scallops cook quickly, so a hot grill is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelization.

Next, lightly brush the scallops with oil and season them with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavors without overpowering them.

When placing the scallops on the grill, be sure to leave enough space between them to allow for even cooking. Overcrowding the grill can lead to steaming instead of searing, which will result in a loss of flavor and texture.

As the scallops cook, resist the urge to flip them too soon. They should develop a nice golden crust before being flipped. A common mistake is flipping them too early, which can cause them to stick to the grill and fall apart.

Serving and Enjoying Grilled Scallops

Don’t forget to savor the juicy tenderness of those perfectly grilled scallops by pairing them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The way you serve and enjoy grilled scallops can truly elevate your dining experience.

Here are some plating tips and wine pairings to enhance your enjoyment:

Plating Tips:

• Use a white plate or a plate with a bright color to make the scallops stand out visually.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle a flavorful sauce, like a lemon butter sauce or a balsamic reduction, around the plate for an extra burst of flavor.

Wine Pairings:

• Chardonnay: This full-bodied white wine with its buttery notes complements the richness of grilled scallops.
• Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp acidity and citrus flavors of this white wine create a refreshing contrast to the scallops.

Conclusion

So there you have it, grilling scallops on your Big Green Egg is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this delicate seafood.

By choosing the right scallops, preparing your Big Green Egg, seasoning the scallops properly, and using the right grilling techniques, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Don’t forget to serve and enjoy your grilled scallops with your favorite side dishes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Happy grilling!