Grilled Florida Sea Scallops with Key Lime Butter

Introduction

Grill up sweet, fresh Florida sea scallops on the Arteflame grill and drizzle them with a rich, tangy key lime butter sauce for the perfect seafood dish. By searing the scallops on the center grill grate at 1,000°F, you lock in their juices, then finish cooking them evenly on the Arteflame’s flat griddle cooktop. This method delivers an incredible texture and flavor that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh Florida sea scallops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp key lime juice
• 1 tsp key lime zest
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Oil-soaked napkins and firewood (for lighting the Arteflame grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build up.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach cooking temperature.

Step 2: Season the scallops

1. Pat the sea scallops dry with a paper towel.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the scallops.

Step 3: Sear the scallops

1. Place the scallops on the center grill grate over the 1,000°F heat.
2. Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Move the scallops to the outer flat griddle cooktop to continue cooking gently.
4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on the griddle until the internal temperature reaches 115°F.

Step 4: Make the key lime butter sauce

1. Mix the melted butter, key lime juice, and key lime zest in a small bowl.

Step 5: Finish and serve

1. Remove the scallops from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of 115°F, as they will continue to cook slightly after removal.
2. Drizzle the scallops with the key lime butter sauce.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Always use fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best sear.
• Do not overcrowd the scallops on the center grill grate, so they sear evenly.
• Use a high-quality instant-read thermometer to get perfect doneness.
• If the scallops stick when trying to flip them, wait another 30 seconds; they will naturally release when properly seared.

Variations

• Spicy Key Lime Scallops: Add 1/2 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for some heat.
• Garlic Herb Scallops: Mix minced garlic and chopped thyme with the butter sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Coconut Lime Scallops: Replace butter with coconut oil and add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Honey Glazed Scallops: Add a drizzle of honey to the butter sauce for a sweet balance.
• Cajun Spiced Scallops: Use Cajun seasoning instead of smoked paprika and black pepper for a bold, smoky taste.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Buttery grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh citrus salad
• Garlic herb mashed potatoes
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc

Conclusion

These grilled Florida sea scallops with key lime butter are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked on the Arteflame grill. By searing them at 1,000°F and finishing them gently on the flat griddle cooktop, you get restaurant-quality scallops at home. Try different variations and pair them with incredible sides to make this dish truly your own!