Scallops are a tasty seafood treat that many people enjoy. They have a sweet flavor and soft texture that makes them stand out. But scallops alone don’t always make a full meal.

Picking the right side dishes can make your scallop dinner even better.

There are lots of options that go well with scallops. From veggies to grains to other seafood, you have many choices.

The key is to find sides that add to the scallops without taking over the meal.

1. Lemon Garlic Butter

Lemon garlic butter is a classic pairing for scallops. It brings out their sweet flavor while adding zesty brightness.

To make it, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir.

Drizzle this sauce over your seared scallops just before serving.

The rich butter coats the scallops while the lemon and garlic provide a flavor boost.

You can also use this sauce to baste the scallops as they cook. This infuses them with even more flavor.

The result is tender, flavorful scallops with a perfect balance of richness and acidity.

2. Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon wrapped asparagus is a tasty side dish that pairs well with scallops. You can make it in the oven, on the grill, or in an air fryer.

To prepare, wrap fresh asparagus spears with bacon slices. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Cook until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. For extra flavor, brush with balsamic vinegar before serving.

This side adds a nice balance of textures to your scallop meal.

The crispy bacon complements the tender scallops, while the asparagus provides a fresh, green element.

3. Parmesan Risotto

Parmesan risotto is a creamy, indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with seared scallops. You’ll need Arborio rice, broth, butter, and Parmesan cheese to make this Italian classic.

Start by sautéing garlic or shallots in melted butter. Add the rice and coat it with the butter.

Slowly add hot broth, stirring often, until the rice absorbs the liquid.

Keep adding broth and stirring for about 30-40 minutes. The rice will become creamy and tender.

Finish by mixing in grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory flavor that complements your scallops beautifully.

4. Ginger Soy Glazed Broccoli

Ginger soy glazed broccoli is a tasty side dish that pairs well with scallops. You’ll love the mix of flavors in this Asian-inspired recipe.

To make it, start with fresh broccoli florets. Cook them until they’re crisp-tender.

Then, create a sauce with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Toss the cooked broccoli in the ginger-soy mixture.

The sauce coats the broccoli, giving it a savory, slightly sweet taste. The ginger adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the scallops nicely.

This side dish is quick to make and adds color to your plate. It’s also a healthy choice that balances out the richness of the scallops.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty side dish for scallops. You can easily make them at home.

Cut the sprouts in half and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

The sprouts will become crispy on the outside and tender inside. Their slightly bitter taste goes well with sweet scallops.

For extra flavor, try wrapping each sprout in bacon before roasting. The smoky bacon adds a nice contrast to the scallops.

You can also add some garlic or lemon zest for more taste.

6. Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta makes a great side for scallops. This smooth, comforting dish complements the seafood nicely.

To make it, cook cornmeal in water or broth until thick. Add butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

The soft texture of polenta pairs well with seared scallops. Place the scallops on top of a bed of polenta on your plate.

For extra flavor, try mixing herbs like thyme or rosemary into the polenta. You can also add some lemon zest for brightness.

7. Truffle Mashed Potatoes

Truffle mashed potatoes add luxury to your scallop dish. You’ll love the creamy texture that complements the tender scallops perfectly.

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

The rich, earthy flavor of truffles elevates this classic side dish. It turns simple mashed potatoes into something special that will impress your dinner guests.

Serve a dollop next to your scallops for a gourmet meal. The combination of flavors will delight your taste buds and make your dinner feel extra fancy.

8. Saffron Rice

Saffron rice makes a great side dish for scallops. Its golden color and floral aroma add elegance to your meal.

To make saffron rice, steep a few saffron threads in warm water. Cook basmati rice with the saffron liquid, some butter, and salt.

The delicate flavor of saffron complements the sweet taste of scallops. The rice’s fluffy texture also balances the tender scallops nicely.

You can add peas or herbs to your saffron rice for extra flavor and color. Serve it alongside pan-seared or grilled scallops for a delicious combination.

9. Crispy Kale Chips

Kale chips make a tasty and healthy side for scallops. They offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender scallops.

To make kale chips, start by washing and drying your kale thoroughly. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces, removing the tough stems.

Toss the kale with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Spread the pieces on a baking sheet and bake until crispy.

Kale chips are light and won’t overpower the delicate flavor of your scallops. They’re also packed with nutrients, making them a smart choice for your meal.

10. Quinoa Salad with Herb Dressing

Quinoa salad with herb dressing is a light and refreshing side that pairs well with scallops. This protein-packed grain complements the seafood without overpowering it.

The herb dressing adds a burst of flavor that enhances both the quinoa and scallops.

You can use a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and mint for a bright taste.

Add some diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions to the salad for extra crunch and color. A squeeze of lemon juice will give it a zesty kick that matches the scallops perfectly.

This healthy side dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. You can serve it cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for busy dinner preparations.

11. Citrus Arugula Salad

A citrus arugula salad is a great side dish for scallops. It brings a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the seafood.

To make this salad, mix arugula with sliced oranges, grapefruit, or lemons. Add a light dressing made from olive oil, citrus juice, and a touch of honey.

The peppery taste of arugula pairs well with the sweet-tart citrus fruits. This combo creates a refreshing contrast to the scallops’ mild flavor.

For extra crunch, you can add some toasted nuts or seeds. A sprinkle of feta cheese also works nicely if you want a creamy element.

12. Pasta with Pesto

Pasta with pesto is a tasty side dish for scallops. You can make pesto sauce at home or buy it pre-made. Toss it with your favorite pasta shape.

For extra flavor, add sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pasta. Mushrooms also pair well with the pesto.

Cook the pasta al dente and mix it with the pesto sauce just before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting soggy.

You can serve the scallops on top of the pasta or alongside it.

Try using creamy pesto for a richer dish. It combines well with the scallops’ delicate taste.

13. Sweet Corn Puree

Sweet corn puree is a tasty side dish for scallops. It’s smooth and creamy, with a natural sweetness that pairs well with the seafood.

To make it, cook fresh or frozen corn kernels until tender. Blend them with a bit of butter and cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The puree creates a nice base for plating your scallops.

You can add a swirl of it on the plate and place the seared scallops on top. This combo gives you a mix of textures and flavors that work really well together.

14. Chorizo and Tomato Ragout

Chorizo and tomato ragout makes a tasty side dish for scallops. This flavorful combination adds a spicy kick to your meal.

To make it, cook diced chorizo in a pan until crispy. Add chopped onions and garlic, then stir in canned tomatoes and seasonings.

Let the mixture simmer until it thickens. The rich, savory sauce complements the sweet scallops perfectly.

Serve the ragout in a small bowl next to your scallops. You can also spoon it over the scallops for extra flavor.

15. Caramelized Onion Tart

A caramelized onion tart makes a tasty side dish for scallops. The sweet, rich flavors of slowly cooked onions complement the delicate taste of scallops nicely.

You can make a simple tart with puff pastry as the base. Top it with caramelized onions, goat cheese, and fresh thyme. The crispy pastry and creamy cheese provide great texture contrasts.

This tart can be served warm or at room temperature. Cut it into small squares for easy serving alongside your scallops. The combination of flavors will impress your dinner guests.

16. Wilted Spinach with Pine Nuts

Wilted spinach with pine nuts makes a tasty side dish for scallops. To make it, heat olive oil in a pan and add garlic. Cook until fragrant.

Add fresh spinach and toss until it starts to wilt. This only takes a minute or two.

Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts for crunch and nutty flavor.

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon brightens up the dish and complements the scallops nicely.

This quick and easy side comes together in just a few minutes. It provides a healthy dose of greens to balance out your scallop dinner.

17. Beet Carpaccio with Goat Cheese

Beet carpaccio with goat cheese makes a fancy side for scallops. You can use pre-cooked beets to save time. Slice them very thin.

Drizzle the beets with olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar. This adds flavor and makes them shine.

Top the beets with soft goat cheese. For extra creaminess, mix some Greek yogurt with the cheese. Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for crunch.

Add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil. They give a nice pop of color and freshness. Serve this elegant dish cold or at room temperature alongside your scallops.

18. Dill Cucumber Salad

Dill cucumber salad is a cool, crisp side dish that pairs well with scallops. You’ll love how it balances the richness of the seafood.

To make it, slice cucumbers thinly and mix with chopped fresh dill. Add a simple dressing of vinegar, a bit of sugar, and salt.

Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.

The light, tangy taste of this salad complements the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops. It’s a refreshing contrast that will make your meal more enjoyable.

19. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots make a tasty side dish for scallops. You can easily make them at home. Start by peeling and cutting carrots into batons.

Melt butter in a pan and add the carrots. Pour in some honey or maple syrup.

Cook until the carrots are tender and coated in a shiny glaze.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top before serving.

The sweetness of the carrots complements the rich taste of scallops nicely. This colorful side adds a touch of elegance to your plate.

20. Herbed Orzo Pilaf

Herbed orzo pilaf makes a tasty side for scallops. This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well.

To make it, sauté orzo in butter until lightly toasted. Add chicken broth and simmer until the liquid is absorbed.

Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and chives. The herbs give a bright, fresh taste that pairs nicely with scallops. For extra flavor, mix in some lemon zest and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

The citrus notes complement seafood, while the cheese adds richness. This light yet satisfying side lets the scallops shine.

Understanding Flavor Pairings

Picking the right side dishes for scallops involves matching tastes and textures. These pairings can make your meal more enjoyable.

Balancing Tastes

Scallops have a mild, sweet flavor. You can pair them with sides that have contrasting tastes. Citrus fruits like lemon or lime add a bright, acidic note. This helps cut through the richness of scallops.

Herbs like dill or parsley bring freshness. They complement the scallops without overpowering them. Garlic is another good choice. It adds depth to the dish.

For a bolder flavor, try sides with a bit of spice. A light chili sauce or ginger can work well. Just be careful not to use too much. You don’t want to hide the scallops’ natural taste.

Complementary Textures

Texture is just as important as taste when pairing sides with scallops. Scallops are tender and smooth. You can balance this with crunchy or crispy sides.

Try roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. They offer a nice contrast to the soft scallops. A crisp salad with mixed greens and nuts can also work well.

For a starchy side, consider risotto or quinoa. These have a slightly chewy texture that pairs nicely with scallops. You can also try crispy potato wedges for a more indulgent option.

Remember to keep portions in mind. Scallops should be the star of the plate. Choose sides that enhance the scallops without stealing the show.

Culinary Techniques for Side Dishes

Roasting and grilling are two popular cooking methods for side dishes to serve with scallops. These techniques bring out unique flavors and textures in vegetables and other ingredients.

Roasting

Roasting is a great way to prepare vegetable sides for scallops. You can roast almost any veggie in the oven. Try roasting asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut veggies into even-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

Spread the veggies in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them brown better. Roast for 20-30 minutes, depending on the vegetable. Shake the pan halfway through cooking.

Roasted veggies get crispy edges and a caramelized flavor. This complements the sweet taste of scallops nicely.

Grilling

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to side dishes. It’s perfect for summer meals with scallops.

You can grill corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush veggies with oil to prevent sticking.

Season with salt and pepper.

Place vegetables directly on the grill grates. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side.

Use tongs to turn them. Look for nice grill marks and a tender texture.

Grilled sides often have a slightly charred taste. This pairs well with the delicate flavor of scallops.

Try grilling lemon halves too. Squeeze the warm juice over your scallops for extra zest.