Scallops are a wonderful option for all types of diets. Whether you’re counting calories, avoiding carbs, or looking to indulge in a decadent seafood feast, there is a scallop recipe that suits your needs. The high protein content makes these mollusks a satisfying meal, they are naturally low in fat, and they are absolutely delicious. On top of all that scallops only take a few minutes each to cook, so they are a great option for a fast weeknight meal. Check out the list of healthy scallop recipes below for eight ways to sear, grill, and serve up scallops!
This classic, simple recipe is a great starting point. It’s good for low-carb or low-calorie diets, plus It equips you with a few simple tricks that can help you get the perfect sear on the outside of a scallop every time. Protip: Start with chilled scallops and pat them dry! Get the recipe.
This dish gets its creamy qualities from coconut milk and a little ghee. Ancient man might not have eaten much butter, but when it comes to ghee most of the lactose has been removed and you’re left with a pure fat, so many people consider it paleo-friendly. If you’re avoiding butter just swap out the ghee for oil or lard, but don’t skip the saffron. Get the recipe.
Here’s a recipe perfect for those of you seeking a little more fiber. The barley makes this dish filling and satisfying, while the beets add a wonderful earthy flavor. Go light on the garlic sauce and this is a low-fat, high-protein dish! Get the recipe.
This Thai-inspired recipe has tons of bright flavors from citrus and sweet chile sauce. It’s a cinch to whip up quickly, so it would be a perfect idea for a low-carb, calorie-conscious weeknight dinner! Get the recipe.
The grill is really magical when it comes to preparing scallops: If it’s heated properly you can get a smoky char on the outside of the scallops while leaving the inside tender and juicy. Plus, you barely have to add any fat to aid in the cooking, just brush the scallops lightly with oil or butter to stop them from sticking. Get the recipe.
If you’re looking for a slightly different way to prepare scallops, consider this panko-crusted version. It’s much healthier than deep-frying them, but the topping of panko, pine nuts, Parmesan, and tarragon gets plenty crunchy under the broiler. This recipe is a great way to sate a craving for fattier fried foods. Get the recipe.
In addition to being low-fat, this simple seared scallop recipe incorporates some wilted spinach for added nutrient power. For those of you interested, the recipe includes the Weight Watchers points! Get the recipe.
If you aren’t interested in calorie counting at the moment, try indulging in this recipe for seared scallops with beurre blanc. It may be high in fat, but it’s still low-carb, not that you need to make any excuses. The stomach wants what the stomach wants. Get the recipe.
