Grilled Scallops and Nectarines - A Great Summer Meal

Grilled scallops and nectarines make a light yet flavorful pairing perfect for warm-weather dining. The natural sweetness of the nectarines complements the tender, buttery scallops, creating an elegant and simple dish to prepare.

This meal celebrates summer's best produce when served alongside a fresh Jersey corn and tomato salad. The crisp sweetness of the corn and the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes bring vibrant color and texture to the plate, balancing the richness of the grilled seafood and fruit.

Whether hosting an outdoor gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that feel gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. Grilling the scallops and nectarines enhances their natural sweetness while adding a smoky, caramelized finish that elevates the dish.

Paired with the fresh crunch of the corn and the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, every bite reminds us of the season's bounty. This recipe is as visually stunning as it is delicious, making it a perfect addition to your summer menu.

Grilling Scallops

Grilling scallops to perfection requires attention to detail and proper technique to ensure they come out tender, caramelized, and full of flavor. Here are some key tips for achieving perfectly grilled scallops:

Choose Dry Scallops: If you can find them, always opt for dry-packed scallops. They are free from preservatives and excess moisture. Wet scallops, often treated with sodium solutions, don’t sear well and can become rubbery.
Pat Them Dry: Paint the scallops dry with paper towels before grilling. Removing excess moisture helps them sear beautifully and prevents steaming on the grill.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to high heat (around 450-500°F). Scallops cook quickly, so the grill needs to be hot to achieve a good sear without overcooking the inside.
Oil the Grill Grates: Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the scallops from sticking. You can also lightly oil the scallops themselves.
Don’t Overcook: Grill scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should have a golden-brown crust and be slightly translucent in the center. Overcooking can lead to a tough, rubbery texture.
Season Lightly: A simple sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering them.

Ingredients

Chili powder is a spice blend made from dried and ground chili peppers and other complementary spices. Its exact ingredients and flavor profile can vary based on regional preferences and individual recipes. Chili powder is commonly used in various cuisines to add heat, color, and flavor to dishes.

Fresh basil leaves refer to the green, aromatic leaves of the basil plant (Ocimum basilicum) harvested and used in cooking. Basil is a popular herb in many cuisines known for its sweet, slightly peppery flavor and distinct aroma. The leaves are often used fresh, as their flavor is most vibrant when not subjected to prolonged heat.

Olive oil is an edible oil extracted from olives, the fruit of the olive tree (Olea europaea). It is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is widely used worldwide for its rich flavor and various health benefits. Olive oil has been a key component of human diets for thousands of years. There are several types of olive oil, and their characteristics depend on factors such as the quality of olives used, the region of production, and the extraction process.

Diver scallops, also known simply as "diver" or "day boat" scallops, are harvested by hand rather than by dredging or other mechanical methods. The term "diver" emphasizes skilled divers' sustainable and environmentally friendly harvesting practices.

Nectarines are a type of stone fruit that belongs to the same family as peaches (Rosaceae). They are a smooth-skinned variety of peach. The main difference between peaches and nectarines lies in the skin—nectarines have smooth, thin skin, while peaches have fuzzy or velvety skin.

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