Bacon Bliss Teriyaki Scallops

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of these Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops! This delightful recipe combines the smoky saltiness of bacon, the succulent sweetness of scallops, and the tropical tang of pineapple, all brushed with a luscious teriyaki glaze. Perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress, these skewers are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to fire up your grill and experience a symphony of tastes!

There’s something undeniably festive about grilled skewers, especially when the weather warms up. They evoke a sense of outdoor fun and are incredibly versatile, allowing for endless flavor combinations. Forget boring old grilled meals and dive into a world of flavor and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie looking to impress your friends and family, these skewers are super easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them a great option for those busy weeknights.

While traditional grilling options like chicken and beef are always a classic, these Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops offer a unique twist that’s both unexpected and incredibly satisfying. The combination of textures and flavors will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving more. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this recipe.

These bacon-wrapped scallops are brushed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and threaded with juicy chunks of pineapple for an added tropical flair. The grilling process caramelizes the bacon, imparting a deep, smoky flavor that complements the delicate sweetness of the scallops and the tangy pineapple.

Are you ready to add a burst of flavor to your summer gatherings? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create this amazing dish. In fact, most of these items are likely already in your pantry or easily accessible at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering skewers:

• Sea Scallops: Opt for sea scallops, as they are larger and easier to work with on skewers. Their size also ensures that they cook evenly on the grill.
• Bacon: Applewood smoked bacon adds a delightful smoky flavor, but feel free to use your favorite bacon. Just make sure the slices are long enough to wrap around the scallops.
• Fresh Pineapple: The sweetness of fresh pineapple complements the savory flavors perfectly. Cut it into bite-sized chunks for easy threading. Canned pineapple can be used as a convenient alternative.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Choose a high-quality teriyaki sauce as the base for your marinade. Look for one with a balanced blend of sweet and savory notes.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger add a pungent, aromatic element to the teriyaki sauce, enhancing its depth of flavor.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a beautiful caramelized glaze on the grill. Be mindful of the sugar content, as it can burn easily.

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops:

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Mix these ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This vibrant mixture is key to infusing the scallops and bacon with delicious flavor.

Divide the mixture in half. One half is used to baste the skewers before grilling, while the other half will be used to brush the skewers after they are cooked.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Now comes the fun part: assembling the skewers! Cut the bacon slices in half, making it easier to wrap around each scallop. For each scallop, tightly wrap a half-slice of bacon around its circumference. Thread a bacon-wrapped scallop onto a skewer, followed by a piece of pineapple. Repeat this process until each skewer has about two sets of bacon-wrapped scallops and pineapple chunks.

Step 3: Brush with Teriyaki Glaze

Using a pastry brush, generously brush both sides of the assembled skewers with the teriyaki glaze that you set aside earlier. Be sure to coat the scallops, bacon, and pineapple evenly to ensure maximum flavor penetration. Set aside the glaze to avoid any contamination.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375°F and 450°F. Place the skewers on the grill grates and cook for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are cooked through. Be sure to turn the skewers halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and prevent burning.

Step 5: Final Baste and Serve

Remove the cooked skewers from the grill and immediately brush with the remaining teriyaki glaze. This final baste adds a glossy shine and an extra layer of flavor to the skewers. Serve the Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops immediately and watch as your guests rave about this delicious culinary masterpiece.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Scallops

To ensure that your Grilled Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Scallops turn out perfectly every time, keep these essential tips in mind:

• Control Grill Temperature: Maintaining a steady medium-high heat is essential for even cooking. If your grill runs hot, consider lowering the heat slightly to prevent the bacon from burning before the scallops are cooked through.
• Choosing Skewers: While metal skewers are reusable and durable, bamboo skewers add a rustic touch. If using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
• Selecting Scallops: Opt for large sea scallops, as smaller bay scallops may overcook or fall off the skewers easily. Look for scallops that are firm, dry, and have a fresh, clean smell.
• Bacon Selection: Choose bacon that has a good balance of fat and meat for maximum flavor and crispiness. Avoid overly thick or thin slices, as they may not cook evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making grilled scallops:

How do I know when scallops are done on the grill?

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and are firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.

How do I get scallops to have a nice sear on the outside?

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before wrapping them in bacon. This helps to promote browning and create a beautiful sear on the outside.

How do I prevent scallops from drying out?

Grill the scallops over medium-high heat for just a few minutes per side. Avoid overcooking them, as this can cause them to dry out and become tough.

More Summer Recipes to Enjoy

Looking for more delicious summer recipes to add to your repertoire? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Grilled Shrimp Skewers: A simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for casual summer gatherings.
• Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs: A healthy and delicious option that’s quick and easy to prepare.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Butter: A classic summer side dish with a spicy twist.
• Watermelon and Feta Salad: A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for hot summer days.