Seared Scallop Tacos Recipe: A Delicious and Fresh Twist on Tacos

Tacos are a classic favorite in many households, but have you ever tried scallop tacos? This fresh, flavorful take on traditional tacos adds a touch of elegance with seared scallops and vibrant toppings. Whether you’re looking for a light meal for a summer evening or something different to add to Taco Tuesday, these scallop tacos are sure to impress. With their perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors, they’re a great option for seafood lovers or anyone wanting to try something new.

In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for scallop tacos, along with helpful tips, storage suggestions, and even the nutrition breakdown per serving.

Ingredients

Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 tacos (2 tacos per serving)

How to Make Scallop Tacos

1. Prepare the ingredients
   Start by shredding the red cabbage and slicing the avocado. Squeeze half of the lime over the avocado to prevent browning. Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Season the scallops
   Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help them sear properly. Season with salt, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the scallops to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Cook the scallops
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned scallops to the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the scallops turn golden brown and are slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Prepare the taco assembly
   While the scallops are cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for 20 seconds until soft and pliable. Once the scallops are done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
5. Assemble the tacos
   Place a couple of scallops on each tortilla. Top with shredded red cabbage, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Squeeze the remaining lime over the top and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired. For an extra kick, drizzle with hot sauce.
6. Serve and enjoy
   Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. These scallop tacos are perfect for a light meal, party appetizer, or a special dinner with friends or family.

Recipe Notes

• Scallop Quality: Fresh, high-quality scallops are key to this recipe. Look for dry-packed scallops, which are free from added preservatives, and have a sweet, briny flavor.
• Toppings: You can customize the toppings based on your preferences. Try adding a tangy slaw, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of cilantro-lime dressing for extra flavor.
• Tortillas: While soft corn tortillas are ideal, you can also use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps if you prefer a low-carb version.
• Searing the Scallops: Be careful not to overcook the scallops. They should be golden on the outside but still tender and moist inside.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• For Extra Flavor: Marinate the scallops in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder for 15-20 minutes before searing them for added depth of flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: These scallop tacos pair beautifully with a fresh cucumber salad or a side of roasted sweet potatoes. For a more complete meal, serve with a cold, crisp drink like a sparkling water with lime or a light beer.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Option: Substitute the scallops with grilled portobello mushrooms or tempeh for a plant-based taco option that’s equally satisfying.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl for seasoning
• Grater or mandolin (for cabbage)

How to Serve

These scallop tacos are perfect for:

• Summer Dinners: Enjoy them as a light dinner on warm evenings. Serve with a fresh margarita or iced tea.
• Taco Tuesdays: Impress your guests with these gourmet-style seafood tacos instead of the typical beef or chicken option.
• Party Appetizers: Serve them as mini tacos for a fun, shareable appetizer at your next gathering or BBQ.
• Meal Prep: Pack the taco ingredients separately for a healthy, easy-to-assemble lunch during the week.

Storage and Reheating

While scallop tacos are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers:

• Scallops: Store cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a bit of oil or butter to prevent them from drying out.
• Toppings: Keep the toppings (cabbage, avocado, cilantro) in separate containers in the fridge. Assemble the tacos right before serving.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

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Health Benefits

• Scallops: Rich in protein and low in fat, scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, helping with muscle repair and growth. They are also high in selenium, which supports immune function.
• Avocados: Packed with healthy fats, avocados are great for heart health and contribute to the creamy texture of these tacos.
• Cabbage: A great source of fiber and antioxidants, cabbage supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Lime: High in vitamin C, lime juice boosts your immune system and helps with the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen scallops can work, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I substitute the corn tortillas?
   Yes! You can use flour tortillas or even lettuce leaves if you prefer a gluten-free or low-carb option.
3. What can I use instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt?
   For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan sour cream or a drizzle of lime-infused olive oil for extra flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   While the scallops should be cooked fresh, you can prepare the toppings in advance, such as slicing the avocado and shredding the cabbage.
5. How can I make these tacos spicier?
   Add some diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of spicy sriracha sauce for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Scallop tacos bring a unique, light, and delicious twist to traditional tacos. With their perfectly seared scallops, tangy lime, creamy avocado, and crunchy cabbage, they offer a burst of flavors that are sure to satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these tacos will undoubtedly be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to make, and with a few simple adjustments, you can tailor them to suit any dietary needs.