Grilled Maine Scallops with Garlic Butter & Lemon

Introduction

Maine scallops are known for their sweet and delicate flavor, and grilling them on the Arteflame grill brings out their natural juiciness and creates the perfect caramelized crust. By using the center grill grate at over 1,000°F to quickly sear the scallops, then finishing them on the flat cooktop with garlic butter and lemon juice, you achieve a perfectly tender bite every time. This method ensures scallops that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and infused with rich buttery flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh Maine scallops
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins, place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches over 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice.

Step 3: Sear the Scallops

1. Place the scallops on the center grill grate for 30-45 seconds per side to create a perfect golden crust.
2. Flip once and sear the other side for another 30-45 seconds.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the scallops to the flat griddle portion of the cooktop to continue cooking.
2. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture.
3. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the scallops are opaque and reach an internal temperature of 115°F.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove scallops from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes (they will continue to cook to 130°F).
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

• For the best results, always pat scallops dry before grilling to achieve a perfect sear.
• Scallops cook quickly, so monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.
• Use high-quality butter for maximum flavor.
• The flat-top griddle ensures even cooking while preventing flare-ups.
• Remove scallops from the grill at an internal temperature of 115°F since they continue to cook off the heat.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Scallops: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy flavor.
2. Herb Butter Scallops: Replace parsley with a mix of thyme and rosemary for an earthy aroma.
3. Garlic Parmesan Scallops: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top after grilling for a rich, nutty taste.
4. Citrus Glazed Scallops: Add a splash of orange juice and honey to the butter mixture for a sweet zing.
5. Asian-Inspired Scallops: Use sesame oil instead of butter and brush with a soy sauce and ginger glaze.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Buttery mashed potatoes
• A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
• Grilled garlic bread
• A fresh arugula and citrus salad

Conclusion

Grilling Maine scallops on the Arteflame grill creates an unbeatable caramelized crust while keeping them juicy inside. With garlic butter and a touch of lemon, these scallops are bursting with flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the delicious variations, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.