Scallops have a delicate sweetness and rich texture loved by many. When preparing sides, you need to pick options that will not overshadow these mild flavors. Regardless if you’re cooking for a simple date night or hosting a special occasion, making the right choice can easily turn your meal from good to great. In this blog, we’ll talk about the best ideas on what to serve with your scallops.
Potatoes:
Old-fashioned mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs well with scallops. The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for accentuating the mild, sweet flavor of scallops. But don’t just use any potatoes, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery richness. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with a generous amount of butter, whole milk, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. If you enjoy stronger flavors and enjoy some kick, you can incorporate a dollop of sour cream.
Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For a more sophisticated take, try herb and garlic mashed potatoes. Roast a few cloves of garlic until soft and fragrant, then mash them into your potatoes. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley bring an aromatic quality that enhances the potatoes’ flavor profile. Although some people have aversion to the taste and smell, it’s undeniable that they add a savory depth that complements the natural sweetness of scallops. If you want to serve something gourmet, this is one of the best options you can make.
Boursin Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
If you’re looking to impress your guests, Boursin cheese scalloped potatoes are a luxurious choice. Just the name alone screams high-end dining. But the best thing about it is, despite its complex sounding name, it’s actually pretty easy to make. Just thinly slice your potatoes and layer them with Boursin cheese, cream, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Bake until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender. The creamy cheese sauce, when cooked, creates a rich, velvety texture that levels up the flavors of the scallops without overpowering them. If you want to add a touch of elegance to your meal, this dish is an amazing choice.
Roasted Red Potatoes
Roasted red potatoes are a versatile and easy option that complements scallops perfectly. Cut red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like rosemary or thyme), and roast until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The crispy red potatoes don’t just add earthy flavors and a delightful contrast to the tender, sweet scallops, but they also look appetizing when plated.
Rice:
Garlic Parmesan Brown Rice
Brown rice is a hearty and nutritious option that pairs well with scallops. To add flavor, cook the rice with minced garlic and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The nutty taste of brown rice combined with the savory garlic and creamy Parmesan creates a well-rounded side dish that enhances the scallops’ flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time because overcooking can make your rice taste bitter.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro is not for everyone. But if you’re serving this dish for people who actually enjoy its flavors, they make a great addition to your scallops. To make cilantro lime rice, cook white rice and mix in freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Don’t overmix or you’ll end up with mushy instead of fluffy rice. This tangy, herbaceous rice dish adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with scallops, especially if you’re serving them with a citrus-based sauce or a tropical fruit salsa. The bright and refreshing notes of the cilantro lime rice provide a delightful contrast to the scallops’ richness.
Perfectly Seasoned Quinoa
Quinoa is not just a healthy option but also a versatile grain that works well with a variety of dishes, including scallops. To make this side dish, cook the quinoa according to the package instructions, then season it with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs or a handful of toasted nuts. The light, nutty flavor of quinoa pairs nicely with the sweet scallops and adds a nutritious element to your meal.
Salad:
Pomegranate spinach salad
A pomegranate spinach salad is a refreshing and visually stunning side that pairs beautifully with scallops. But it’s not just a colorful dish, if you combine fresh spinach leaves with pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette, you’ll end up with bursting flavors and wonderfully crisp textures. This salad is not only aesthetic but also a great accompaniment to scallops because it balances its mild flavors.
Spinach Apple Salad
Another great salad option is a spinach apple salad. Combine fresh spinach with thinly sliced apples, toasted walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crisp apples and crunchy walnuts add texture and a touch of sweetness that complements the delicate flavor of scallops. This salad is both light and flavorful, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Summer Squash Salad
This side dish is a seasonal option that’s anticipated by many. This vibrant and seasonal option pairs well with scallops because its flavors aren’t too strong. Simply sauté or grill slices of summer squash until they’re tender and lightly charred. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil or thyme. This salad is light yet flavorful, with the charred squash adding a hint of smokiness that enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness. Some people add a bit of lemon to add freshness to the dish.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Mediterranean orzo salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that works well with scallops. Cook orzo pasta and mix it with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemony dressing. It’s a well balanced dish that has a bit of everything and is enjoyed by people who like a lot of vegetables in their meals. When paired with scallops, it makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
Roasted beets have a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with tangy and creamy goat cheese. Simply mix the beets with combined greens, nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), and a balsamic vinaigrette. The rich flavors and textures of this salad add a touch of refinement to your meal and complement the scallops nicely while the colors make it perfect for gracing the most aesthetic dining tables.
Vegetables:
Simply Steamed Spinach
For a healthy and simple side, steamed spinach is an excellent choice. Lightly steam fresh spinach until it’s wilted, then season with a bit of salt and pepper. This straightforward preparation allows the spinach’s natural flavor to shine through, making it a perfect complement to the delicate taste of scallops. Steamed spinach is also a great way to add some greens to your meal without overwhelming the other flavors.
Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This satisfying side dish is so easy to make and pairs well with scallops. Just toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The caramelized edges add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor that enhances the scallops. You can add a sprinkle of balsamic glaze or a handful of crispy bacon bits for extra kick, just don’t overdo it because the strong flavors could overshadow the flavor of the scallops.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Garlic butter green beans are a delicious and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with scallops. Sauté green beans in butter with minced garlic until they’re tender and aromatic. The rich, buttery flavor and the robust garlic complement the sweetness of the scallops and add a touch of luxury to your meal. For added crunch, consider tossing in some sliced almonds or sesame seeds. This side dish is probably one of the ways you can have smaller children try scallops because the flavors are not too strong and are in general palatable even for kids.
Sauteed Mushrooms and Onions
Sautéed mushrooms and onions make for a savory and satisfying side that complements scallops beautifully. Cook a mix of mushrooms and onions in olive oil or butter until they’re golden and caramelized. The umami-rich mushrooms and sweet onions add depth and complexity to the dish, providing a hearty contrast to the tender scallops. This side dish is both flavorful and versatile, making it a great addition to your meal. You can try different kinds of mushrooms depending on your preferred flavor profile.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Balsamic glazed carrots are a sweet and tangy side that pairs wonderfully with scallops. Roast or sauté carrots until they’re tender, then toss them with a balsamic reduction or glaze. The tangy glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a flavorful side that complements the delicate taste of the scallops. For added texture, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs.
Pasta:
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Lemon garlic pasta is a light and flavorful option that pairs well with scallops. Cook your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine) and toss it with sautéed garlic in olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. The citrusy flavor and the spice of garlic creates a wonderful contrast to the scallops’ sweetness.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Creamy tomato basil pasta is a traditionally comforting and flavorful choice that complements scallops nicely. Prepare a simple tomato sauce by cooking down tomatoes with garlic, onions, and a touch of cream. Toss the sauce with cooked pasta, adding fresh basil for a burst of herbaceous flavor. The rich, tangy taste pairs well with the mild flavors of the scallops.
Pasta Primavera
Pasta primavera is a versatile and colorful dish that works well with scallops. Cook your choice of pasta and toss it with a medley of sautéed seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus. Add a light sauce made from olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine or vegetable broth. It’s simple and delicate which allows you to still enjoy the sweet scallop flavors.
Conclusion
Picking the right sides to serve with your scallops means finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures that enhance them without overpowering their mild flavors. From creamy mashed potatoes and zesty rice to refreshing salads and vibrant vegetables, there’s just so many possibilities to upgrade your dish. Each side dish offers a unique flavor profile so you can tailor your meal to your preferences and occasion.
We’ve presented you with 20 great ideas, but there are so many other options you can try. So get creative and serve an unforgettable dining experience that you and all your loved ones will enjoy. Bon appétit!