Scallops are a tasty seafood that many people enjoy. They cook fast and can be a great choice for dinner or a party snack.

But what should you serve with them? This question often comes up when planning a meal with scallops.

There are many side dishes that go well with scallops. You can choose from veggies, grains, and other options to make your scallop meal complete. The right sides can bring out the best flavors in your scallops and make your meal more filling.

Let’s look at some good choices for side dishes to serve with scallops.

1. Lemon Herb Risotto

Lemon herb risotto is a perfect side dish for scallops. Its creamy texture and bright flavors complement the delicate taste of the seafood.

To make it, you’ll cook Arborio rice slowly with broth, white wine, and lemon juice.

Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs like parsley and chives at the end.

The zesty lemon adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the risotto. The herbs provide a fresh, aromatic element that enhances the scallops’ sweetness.

Serve the scallops on top of the risotto for an elegant presentation. The creamy rice will soak up any juices from the scallops, creating a delicious blend of flavors.

2. Garlic Butter Asparagus

Garlic butter asparagus is a tasty side dish that pairs well with scallops. The tender green spears complement the scallops’ delicate flavor without overpowering them.

To make this side, sauté fresh asparagus in a pan with melted butter and minced garlic.

Cook until the asparagus is bright green and slightly crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The rich, garlicky butter sauce enhances both the asparagus and scallops. This side dish adds color and texture to your plate while keeping the focus on the star of the meal – the scallops.

3. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Parmesan roasted broccoli is a tasty side dish that goes well with scallops. It’s easy to make and adds a nice crunch to your meal.

To prepare it, cut broccoli into florets and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread the florets on a baking sheet and roast them in a hot oven until they’re tender and slightly crispy.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt and create a savory crust on the broccoli.

This side dish brings a mix of flavors and textures that complement the scallops nicely. The roasted broccoli is both nutty and slightly sweet, while the Parmesan adds a salty kick.

4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Crispy Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side dish for scallops. To prepare them, cut the sprouts in half and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast them in a hot oven until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. The caramelization brings out their natural sweetness.

For extra flavor, try adding bacon or pancetta before roasting. You can also drizzle balsamic vinegar or sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

The crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts pairs well with the tender scallops. Their slightly nutty taste complements the seafood nicely.

5. Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa is a fresh and tasty side for scallops. It brings bright, tropical flavors to your plate.

To make it, mix chopped ripe mango and avocado. Add some diced red onion and cilantro for extra punch. Squeeze in lime juice and sprinkle with salt to taste.

This salsa works great with pan-seared or grilled scallops. The sweet mango balances the rich scallops, while creamy avocado adds texture.

You can serve it on top of the scallops or on the side. It’s also good on a slice of bread as an appetizer with scallops.

6. Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta makes a great side dish for scallops. This smooth, comforting corn-based dish complements the seafood’s delicate flavor.

To make polenta, you’ll cook cornmeal with water or broth until thick and creamy. Add butter and cheese for extra richness if desired.

Serve the polenta warm and soft alongside your scallops. The contrasting textures work well together. The polenta’s mild taste won’t overpower the scallops.

For a fancier presentation, let the polenta cool and solidify. Then cut it into shapes and pan-fry for a crispy exterior.

7. Truffle Mashed Potatoes

Truffle mashed potatoes are a luxurious side dish that pairs perfectly with scallops. The rich flavor of truffle oil takes ordinary mashed potatoes to new heights.

To make them, boil Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes until tender. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Then stir in a small amount of truffle oil.

The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the tender scallops beautifully. The earthy truffle flavor adds depth without overpowering the delicate seafood.

Serve a small scoop of truffle mashed potatoes alongside your scallops for an elegant and satisfying meal.

8. Wilted Spinach with Garlic

Wilted spinach with garlic makes a tasty side for scallops. It’s quick and easy to prepare.

Heat some olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in fresh spinach leaves and stir until they wilt.

Season the spinach with salt and pepper to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness.

This simple side lets the scallops shine. The garlic flavor complements the seafood nicely. The green spinach also looks appealing next to the golden-brown scallops on your plate.

9. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Balsamic glazed carrots make a tasty side dish for scallops. The sweet and tangy flavors complement the seafood well.

To make them, roast or sauté carrots until tender. Then toss with a balsamic reduction or glaze. The glaze brings out the carrots’ natural sweetness.

This colorful side adds visual appeal to your plate. It’s easy to prepare but looks impressive. The smoky-sweet taste pairs nicely with the delicate scallops.

You can adjust the glaze to your liking. Add a touch of honey for extra sweetness if desired. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

10. Cauliflower Puree

Cauliflower puree is a tasty side dish that goes well with scallops. It’s creamy and smooth, like mashed potatoes, but with fewer carbs.

The mild flavor of cauliflower lets the scallops shine. You can make the puree ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

To make it, cook cauliflower until soft, then blend it with butter and cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve a scoop of warm cauliflower puree on each plate and place your seared scallops on top. The contrast of textures and flavors makes for a delicious meal.

11. Chive Butter Corn

Chive butter corn makes a tasty side dish for scallops. You can easily whip up this flavorful accompaniment in minutes.

Start by melting butter in a pan. Add fresh corn kernels and cook until tender. Stir in chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.

The butter creates a rich, silky coating on the corn. It pairs well with the delicate texture of scallops. The chives add a pop of color and fresh taste to brighten up your plate.

This simple side lets the scallops shine while providing a delicious contrast in flavors and textures.

12. Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese salad skewers are a fun twist on the classic Italian dish. They make a great side for scallops.

Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto small skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

These skewers are easy to eat and look nice on the plate. The fresh flavors complement scallops well without overpowering them.

You can make these ahead of time and keep them chilled until serving. They’re perfect for summer meals or dinner parties with scallops as the main dish.

13. Saffron Rice Pilaf

Saffron rice pilaf makes a great side dish for scallops. The golden color and delicate flavor of saffron complement the seafood nicely.

To make it, sauté onions and garlic in butter. Add long-grain rice and toast it briefly. Pour in chicken broth and a pinch of saffron threads.

Simmer the rice until tender and fluffy. The saffron gives the rice a beautiful yellow hue and subtle floral taste.

You can add extras like sliced almonds, raisins, or herbs for more flavor and texture. The bright color and aromatic taste of saffron rice pilaf pair wonderfully with simply prepared scallops.

14. Ratatouille

Ratatouille makes a tasty side dish for scallops. This French vegetable stew adds color and flavor to your plate. It’s packed with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

The vegetables are cooked until tender and mixed with herbs. The result is a savory, slightly sweet combination. Ratatouille’s rich flavors complement the delicate taste of scallops nicely.

You can serve ratatouille warm or at room temperature. It’s a versatile side that works well for both casual and fancy meals. Plus, it’s a great way to add more veggies to your dinner.

15. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles make a great side dish for scallops. They’re low in carbs and calories but high in nutrients.

To make zucchini noodles, use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create long, thin strips. Sauté them briefly in olive oil with garlic for added flavor.

You can serve zucchini noodles plain or toss them with herbs, lemon juice, or Parmesan cheese. Their mild taste pairs well with the delicate flavor of scallops.

This veggie-based side is quick to prepare. It takes less time than boiling pasta and provides a light, fresh element to your meal.

16. Arugula and Fennel Salad

Arugula and fennel salad is a tasty side for scallops. The peppery arugula adds a nice kick, while fennel brings a cool, crisp flavor.

To make this salad, thinly slice fennel and mix it with arugula leaves. Add some orange segments for sweetness and color.

Dress the salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette. This light dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.

This salad offers a fresh contrast to rich, buttery scallops. Its crisp texture and bright taste clean your palate between bites of seafood.

17. Quinoa Tabbouleh

Quinoa tabbouleh offers a fresh and light side dish to pair with scallops. This twist on traditional tabbouleh swaps bulgur wheat for protein-rich quinoa.

Mix cooked quinoa with chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumber. Add a zesty dressing of lemon juice and olive oil.

The bright flavors and varied textures complement the scallops nicely. The quinoa provides a subtle nutty taste that enhances the seafood.

This gluten-free option is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. It’s also packed with nutrients and fiber to round out your meal.

18. Green Bean Almondine

Green Bean Almondine is a tasty side dish that goes well with scallops. You’ll love the mix of crisp green beans and crunchy almonds.

This dish is easy to make. Start by blanching the green beans until they’re bright green and still have some snap. Then sauté them with butter, garlic, and sliced almonds.

A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds a nice zing. The freshness of the beans pairs nicely with the rich flavor of scallops. It’s a light side that won’t overpower your main course.

19. Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Bacon Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for scallops. The smoky bacon flavor pairs well with the slight bitterness of the sprouts.

To make this side, wrap each Brussels sprout in a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpicks if needed.

Bake the wrapped sprouts until the bacon turns crispy and the sprouts become tender. The crispy bacon adds a nice texture contrast to the soft scallops.

This side dish brings richness and depth to complement the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops. The combination creates a satisfying mix of tastes and textures on your plate.

20. Miso Glazed Eggplant

Miso glazed eggplant is a tasty side dish to pair with scallops. The rich umami flavor of the miso complements the sweet, delicate taste of the seafood.

To make it, cut eggplants in half and score the flesh. Brush them with a mixture of miso paste, mirin, and sugar. Roast until tender and caramelized.

The soft texture of the eggplant contrasts nicely with the firm scallops. Its savory-sweet flavor adds depth to your meal.

You can serve this dish over rice or noodles for a more filling option. It’s a great way to add a Japanese-inspired touch to your scallop dinner.

21. Coconut Lime Rice

Coconut lime rice adds a tropical twist to your scallop dinner. This fragrant side dish combines the creamy sweetness of coconut with zesty lime.

To make it, cook jasmine rice in coconut milk instead of water. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and some zest at the end.

The flavors complement scallops nicely. The coconut adds richness while the lime brightens the dish. It’s a tasty change from plain rice.

This side works well with Asian-inspired scallop recipes. Try it with seared scallops in a Thai curry sauce or ginger-soy glazed scallops.

Understanding Scallop Pairings

Scallops are versatile seafood that can be paired with many flavors and ingredients. The key is to choose sides that complement their delicate taste and texture.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

When pairing scallops, think about contrast. Their mild, sweet flavor works well with both light and bold tastes.

Try pairing them with:

• Citrus fruits like lemon or lime
• Herbs such as basil or thyme
• Crispy vegetables for textural contrast

You can also match scallops with creamy sauces or buttery sides. Just be careful not to overpower their natural flavor.

A simple rice pilaf or roasted vegetables can let the scallops shine.

Considering Seasonal Ingredients

Seasonal pairings can elevate your scallop dish. In summer, try:

• Grilled corn salad
• Fresh tomato salsa
• Chilled cucumber soup

For fall and winter, consider:

• Roasted butternut squash
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Creamy parsnip puree

By using what’s in season, you’ll get the best flavors and freshest ingredients. This approach also helps you create dishes that fit the time of year, making your meals more enjoyable and satisfying.

Complementary Cooking Techniques

Cooking techniques can make or break your scallop dish. The right method brings out the best flavors and textures.

Grilling and Roasting

Grilling scallops gives them a smoky flavor and crispy edges. Brush them with oil and season before grilling for 2-3 minutes per side.

Don’t overcook, or they’ll get tough.

Roasting is great for larger batches. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place scallops on a baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes. They’re done when they’re firm to the touch.

Both methods work well with veggie sides. Try grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Steaming and Poaching

Steaming keeps scallops tender and moist. Use a steamer basket over simmering water.

Steam for 5-7 minutes until they turn opaque.

Poaching is gentle and adds flavor. Simmer scallops in broth, wine, or milk for 3-4 minutes.

Don’t let the liquid boil, or the scallops will toughen.

These methods are great for delicate flavors. Pair with light sides like steamed rice or a fresh salad.