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29 Scallop Side Dishes – Easy Ideas For Dinner

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Are you on the lookout for some scrumptious side dishes to pair with your favorite scallops? You’re in luck! This list has got you covered with 29 delicious, easy-to-make options that will take your scallop meal to the next level. From creamy mashed potatoes to vibrant vegetable stir-fry and even sweet coconut jasmine rice – this list is sure to get your taste buds tingling.

Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, you’re bound to find something here that you’ll love to whip up. So, let’s dive in and discover some fantastic side dishes that will make your scallop meal a star!

29 scallop side dishes 1

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A Comforting Classic

These garlic mashed potatoes make a creamy, savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of scallops. The hint of garlic adds depth to the potatoes, enhancing their naturally comforting qualities.

A Dish for All Occasions

This side is a great choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, filling your home with a warm and inviting aroma.

Make It Your Own

Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your personal preferences. You might want to add more garlic, stir in some fresh herbs, or top the mashed potatoes with a pat of butter for extra richness.

Check this recipe.

2. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon

A Fresh and Tangy Treat

Roasted asparagus with lemon is a delightful side dish that complements the rich, buttery flavor of scallops. The crisp, tender asparagus and tangy lemon create a flavor profile that’s refreshing and perfectly balanced.

The Perfect Accompaniment

When you’re looking for a light, delicious side dish, this asparagus recipe is the way to go. It’s easy to prepare and makes a beautiful addition to your plate, enhancing the visual appeal of your meal.

Versatility At Its Best

You can easily adjust the flavors in this dish to match your tastes. Consider adding parmesan cheese or swapping the lemon for another citrus like orange or grapefruit.

Check this recipe.

3. Sweet Corn and Tomato Salad

A Burst of Summer Flavor

This sweet corn and tomato salad provides a refreshing burst of summer flavor that beautifully offsets the richness of scallops. The sweetness of the corn, the juiciness of the tomatoes, and the freshness of the herbs create a wonderful symphony of flavors.

Simple Yet Sophisticated

This salad is simple to prepare, but its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it seem sophisticated. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a gourmet scallop dish and can elevate any meal.

Express Your Creativity

Feel free to add or substitute ingredients to make this salad your own. Try adding diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, or even some grilled shrimp for an extra boost of flavor.

Check this recipe.

4. Quinoa with Herbs and Lemon

A Nutrient-Packed Side Dish

Quinoa with herbs and lemon is a nutritious, flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with scallops. Quinoa is a complete protein and is rich in fiber, making this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.

Versatile and Delicious

This quinoa dish is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s equally suitable for a casual family dinner or a formal dining event, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion.

Tailor It to Your Taste

You have the freedom to use any herbs you like in this recipe. Try parsley, dill, or cilantro, or mix a few together to create a unique flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

5. Creamed Spinach

A Classic Side Dish

Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that offers a creamy, savory contrast to the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops. It’s rich, comforting, and delicious, providing a nice counterbalance to the lightness of the scallops.

A Comfort Food Favorite

Despite its gourmet appeal, creamed spinach is the kind of comfort food that everyone can appreciate. It has a warm, familiar flavor that’s sure to bring back fond memories of home-cooked meals.

Personalize Your Dish

Feel free to add your personal touch to this dish. Sprinkle some grated nutmeg, stir in some sautéed onions, or top it with a dusting of parmesan cheese.

Check this recipe.

6. Herb-Roasted Carrots

A Colorful Complement

Herb-roasted carrots offer a colorful, flavorful complement to scallops. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the subtle, savory flavor of scallops, while the herbs add a touch of earthiness.

Suitable for Any Event

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these roasted carrots fit the bill. They’re easy to prepare, and their vibrant color makes them an attractive addition to any plate.

Make It Your Own

You can customize this dish by choosing your favorite herbs or adding other root vegetables to the mix. A touch of honey or maple syrup can also enhance the natural sweetness of the carrots.

Check this recipe.

7. Cauliflower Rice

A Light and Healthy Side

Cauliflower rice is a light, healthy side dish that pairs excellently with scallops. It’s low in carbs, high in fiber, and has a subtle flavor that won’t overshadow the star of the show – your scallops.

Read also: 27 Scallop Recipes 

Quick and Convenient

One of the best things about cauliflower rice is how quick and easy it is to prepare. It’s a versatile side dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.

Express Your Creativity

Feel free to experiment with different flavors in your cauliflower rice. You could add fresh herbs, spices, or even some grated cheese.

Check this recipe.

8. Green Beans Almondine

A Classic French Dish

Green beans almondine is a classic French dish that features tender green beans and crunchy toasted almonds. It’s a simple but elegant side dish that can beautifully enhance a scallop main course.

Elevate Your Dinner

This dish brings an element of sophistication to your dinner. It’s relatively easy to prepare, yet it has an elevated appeal that makes it feel special.

Customize to Your Liking

You can adjust this dish to fit your personal tastes. Consider adding some lemon zest for a touch of brightness or some garlic for an extra savory note.

Check this recipe.

9. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

A Healthier, Sweet Twist

Baked sweet potato fries are a great side dish for scallops, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fries with a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the delicate taste of scallops.

Ideal for Casual Meals

This side dish is perfect for a casual meal or when you’re in the mood for something a little different. These sweet potato fries are crispy, flavorful, and just a little bit addictive.

Make It Your Own

For an extra flavor punch, try sprinkling your fries with some paprika, garlic powder, or a touch of cinnamon before baking.

Check this recipe.

10. Maple Glazed Carrots

A Delectable Treat

Maple glazed carrots are a real treat for your taste buds. This dish combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the deep richness of maple syrup. It’s a delightful side that enhances the naturally sweet and delicate flavor of scallops.

Perfect For Any Occasion

Carrots are available all year round, making this a versatile dish for any occasion. Serve them as a side at your next dinner party or enjoy them on a quiet evening at home.

Make It Your Own

Experiment with different types of carrots and maple syrups to find your favorite combination. For a little extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Check this recipe.

11. Parmesan Risotto

A Creamy Delight

This creamy parmesan risotto complements the succulence of scallops wonderfully. The rich, savory taste of the risotto paired with the delicate sweetness of scallops creates a gourmet dining experience.

Impress Your Guests

Risotto has a reputation for being a bit tricky to perfect, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll impress your dinner guests with this classic Italian dish.

Customize to Your Liking

Feel free to tweak the recipe according to your preference. Add mushrooms, peas, or other veggies for more flavor and nutritional value.

Check this recipe.

12. Roasted Red Potatoes

A Comforting Classic

Roasted red potatoes are a hearty, comforting side dish that goes well with scallops. The crispy edges and fluffy insides of the potatoes provide a pleasing contrast to the soft and succulent texture of scallops.

Versatile and Tasty

Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a special occasion, these potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser. Try them with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Personalize Your Dish

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices. Rosemary, thyme, and garlic are all great options.

Check this recipe.

13. Cucumber Tomato Salad

A Refreshing Side Dish

This refreshing cucumber tomato salad is the perfect counterpoint to rich scallops. The crunch of the cucumbers, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the zesty dressing create a symphony of flavors and textures.

Perfect for Summer

This salad is particularly delightful in the summer months, when tomatoes and cucumbers are at their peak. It’s a great way to showcase the fresh produce of the season.

Customize Your Salad

Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients, like red onions, feta cheese, or fresh herbs.

Check this recipe.

14. Honey Roasted Brussel Sprouts

A Tasty Vegetable Side

These honey roasted Brussel sprouts are a tasty side dish that pairs well with scallops. The natural bitterness of the sprouts is balanced by the sweetness of honey, creating a unique flavor profile.

Nutritious and Delicious

Not only are they delicious, but Brussel sprouts are also packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a nutritious addition to your meal.

Personalize Your Dish

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Adding balsamic vinegar or mustard can give this dish a tangy kick.

Check this recipe.

15. Baked Zucchini Fries

A Healthy Alternative

These baked zucchini fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries and make a great side dish for scallops. They are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.

Perfect for Casual Dining

These zucchini fries are perfect for a casual dinner. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun, interactive meal.

Customize Your Fries

Experiment with different spices in the breading for a unique twist on this dish. Parmesan, paprika, or even cayenne for a spicy kick would all be great additions.

Check this recipe.

16. Quinoa Salad

A Nutrient-Packed Side

This quinoa salad is a nutrient-packed side dish that goes well with scallops. It’s filled with colorful veggies and tossed in a light dressing, making it a healthy and tasty option.

Great for Meal Prep

This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and enjoy it over a few days.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or even some cheese or nuts. This versatile salad can be customized to suit your preferences.

Check this recipe.

17. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter

A Classic Combo

Steamed broccoli with lemon butter is a classic side dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. The bright, tangy lemon butter enhances the natural sweetness of the broccoli and scallops.

Quick and Easy

This dish can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it a perfect side for a busy weeknight dinner.

Customize Your Dish

For a different flavor, try adding some garlic or Parmesan to the broccoli, or use lime instead of lemon for a unique twist.

Check this recipe.

18. Mashed Cauliflower

A Low-Carb Alternative

Mashed cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect complement to scallops.

Healthy and Tasty

This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing taste or texture.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to add in your favorite seasonings or cheese for extra flavor.

Check this recipe.

19. Sweet Cornbread

A Sweet Treat

Sweet cornbread is a delicious side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavor of scallops.

Great for Sharing

This dish is perfect for sharing at a family dinner or potluck. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.

Add Some Extras

For a fun twist, try adding some jalapenos or corn kernels to the batter.

Check this recipe.

20. Lemon Orzo Salad

A Bright, Fresh Side

This lemon orzo salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs well with scallops. The citrusy tang of the lemon dressing brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops.

Great for Meal Prep

This salad can be made in advance and served cold, making it a great option for meal prep.

Customize Your Salad

Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or some feta cheese for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

21. Balsamic Roasted Root Vegetables

A Hearty, Flavorful Side

These balsamic roasted root vegetables are a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements scallops well. The earthy flavors of the vegetables are enhanced by the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

Versatile and Delicious

This dish is versatile and can be made with whatever root vegetables you have on hand.

Experiment with Flavors

Try adding some fresh herbs or spices to switch up the flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

22. Greek Salad

A Refreshing Side

This Greek salad is a refreshing and tangy side dish that balances the rich flavor of scallops. The crisp vegetables and salty feta create a variety of textures and flavors.

Read also: 23 Cream Cheese Recipes 

Perfect for Summer

This salad is particularly delightful in the summer months, when tomatoes and cucumbers are at their peak.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients, like olives, red onion, or fresh herbs.

Check this recipe.

23. Garlic Bread

garlic bread

A Comforting Classic

Garlic bread is a comforting classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The strong garlic flavor and crispy texture make it a great side dish for scallops.

Perfect for Sharing

Serve this dish at your next family dinner or get-together. It’s sure to be a hit!

Add Some Extras

Try topping the bread with some grated Parmesan or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

24. Pesto Pasta Salad

A Flavor-Packed Side

This pesto pasta salad is a flavor-packed side dish that pairs well with scallops. The fresh, herbaceous flavor of the pesto enhances the sweetness of the scallops.

Great for Picnics

This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks as it can be served cold and made in advance.

Customize Your Salad

Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or some grilled chicken for added protein.

Check this recipe.

25. Watermelon Feta Salad

A Sweet and Salty Treat

This watermelon feta salad is a sweet and salty treat that’s a refreshing counterpoint to scallops. The juicy watermelon and salty feta create a symphony of flavors and textures.

Perfect for Summer

This salad is particularly delightful in the summer months, when watermelon is at its peak. It’s a great way to showcase the fresh produce of the season.

Add Some Extras

Try adding some fresh mint or a balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

26. Coconut Jasmine Rice

A Flavorful Complement

Coconut jasmine rice is a flavorful complement to scallops, providing a slightly sweet and fragrant counterpoint to their rich taste.

Ideal for Themed Dinners

This side dish is ideal for themed dinners or when you want to bring a touch of the tropics to your meal.

Personalize Your Dish

Feel free to add some lime zest or toasted coconut flakes for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

27. Roasted Beet Salad

A Colorful and Nutritious Side

Roasted beet salad is a colorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with scallops. The earthy sweetness of the beets complements the delicate flavor of the scallops.

Great for Health Conscious

Rich in fiber and packed with vitamins, this salad is a healthy addition to any meal.

Mix It Up

Consider adding goat cheese and walnuts for a more complex flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

28. Grilled Polenta

A Versatile and Delicious Side

Grilled polenta is a versatile and delicious side that works beautifully with scallops. Its slightly sweet and creamy taste can balance the richness of scallops.

Great for Grilling

If you’re grilling your scallops, grilled polenta can be prepared on the grill at the same time, making for easy cleanup.

Customize to Your Liking

Feel free to top the grilled polenta with grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Check this recipe.

29. Grilled Vegetable Kabobs

A Fun and Healthy Side

Grilled vegetable kabobs are a fun and healthy side dish that pairs well with scallops. The charred, smoky flavor of the vegetables complements the mild, sweet flavor of the scallops.

Great for Outdoor Cookouts

These kabobs are perfect for outdoor cookouts, as they can be prepared on the grill alongside your scallops.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to use your favorite vegetables and try adding some spices or marinades for extra flavor.

Check this recipe.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve explored these 29 amazing side dishes for scallops, you’ve got plenty of options to make your next meal absolutely delightful. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and having fun in the kitchen. So, don’t be afraid to mix and match these recipes, add your own twist, and make them your own. I hope you’ve found some new favorites here, and we can’t wait to hear about all the fantastic meals you’ll create. Happy cooking, friends!


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