Smoked Scallops

Scallops with a lemon, garlic and herb butter in a cast iron skillet.

easyhealthyrecipes.com/smoked-scallops/

These easy Smoked Scallops are served in an addictive citrus garlic butter, perfect to serve as an appetizer or with a creamy risotto.

Prep: 10

Cook: 1

Total: 1 10

Recipe makes approximately 6

Equipment Needed

smoker
mild wood like apple, alder, or cherry
Wire rack

Ingredients Needed

For the Scallops

2-1 ½ lbs large sea scallops (dry-packed preferred)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional for extra color/flavor)

For the Citrus Garlic Butter

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Smoke the Scallops

Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels (this is crucial for good texture and smoke absorption).
In a bowl, toss the scallops with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Let sit while you prep your smoker.
Set your smoker to 225°F. Use a mild wood like apple, alder, or cherry for a delicate smoke that won't overpower the scallops.
Place scallops directly on a lightly greased wire rack or perforated pan to allow smoke to circulate. Smoke for 45-60m, until they are opaque and just firm to the touch (internal temp should be 120–130°F for tender scallops). Don’t overcook!

Make the Butter

While the scallops are smoking, in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and parsley. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then keep warm.

Finish & Serve

Once scallops are done, plate them and spoon warm citrus garlic butter over the top. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.

Recipe Notes

Make the butter up to 3 days and store it in the refrigerator, or up to a month ahead and keep it in the freezer. You can also make extra to serve with fish or shrimp.

Nutrition Info (Approximate)