What To Serve With Scallops? 15 Best Side Dishes

Scallops are a delicate and exquisite seafood dish that can elevate any meal. Their tender, buttery texture and mild, sweet flavor make them a versatile choice for both casual and fine dining experiences.

To make the most of your scallop dish, it's important to pair them with the perfect side dishes.

In this post, we'll introduce you to 15 delicious side dishes to serve with scallops, for a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Looking for a quick asnswer?

The best side dishes to serve with scallops are mushroom risotto, asparagus, mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, butternut squash, onion rings, fried shrimp, fettuccine alfredo, quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, lemon herb couscous, and creamed corn.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Mushroom Risotto

Risotto is a creamy, rich Italian rice dish that complements scallops beautifully. The comforting, savory flavors of the risotto balance the delicate, sweet taste of the scallops, making for a delightful and satisfying combination that is sure to impress your guests.

2. Asparagus

Asparagus is a light and healthy side dish that pairs wonderfully with scallops. The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of asparagus contrasts nicely with the sweet, tender scallops, creating a well-balanced and delicious meal that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

3. Fried Shrimp

Fried shrimp is a delightful seafood accompaniment to scallops. The crunchy, golden exterior of the shrimp adds texture to the meal, while the sweet, succulent shrimp flavor complements the scallops, creating a harmonious seafood feast.

4. Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish that can be served alongside scallops for a decadent meal. The velvety, garlicky sauce enhances the delicate flavor of the scallops, while the tender pasta provides a comforting, satisfying base for the dish.

5. Butternut Squash

Air fryer butternut squash is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs nicely with scallops. The slightly sweet, nutty flavor of the squash complements the tender scallops, while the air fryer ensures a crispy, caramelized exterior that adds texture to the meal.

6. Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that adds a creamy, comforting element to your scallop dinner. The robust flavor of the garlic enhances the mild taste of the scallops, while the smooth, velvety texture of the potatoes provides a satisfying contrast.

7. Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed spinach is a simple, yet flavorful side dish that goes well with scallops. The earthy taste and tender texture of the spinach complement the delicate, buttery scallops, adding a nutritious and tasty component to your meal.

8. Quinoa Salad

A quinoa salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish that pairs nicely with scallops. The nutty, slightly crunchy texture of the quinoa adds a pleasant contrast to the soft, tender scallops, while the vibrant flavors of the salad ingredients create a delightful harmony with the dish.

9. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a versatile and tasty side dish that can be easily customized to your preferences. The smoky, charred flavors of the vegetables enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops, adding depth and variety to your meal.

10. Couscous

Lemon herb couscous is a light and fragrant side dish that perfectly complements scallops. The citrusy, zesty notes of the lemon and the fresh, aromatic herbs brighten the scallop dish, creating a balanced and delightful flavor combination.

11. Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a sweet and creamy side dish that pairs well with scallops. The natural sweetness of the corn enhances the scallops' flavor, while the velvety texture of the creamed corn adds a luxurious touch to the meal.

12. Onion Rings

Onion rings are a fun and tasty side dish that can add a touch of indulgence to your scallop dinner. The crispy, savory onion rings contrast well with the tender, sweet scallops, creating a satisfying combination that is sure to please.

13. Tomato and Avocado Salad

A tomato and avocado salad is a refreshing and healthy side dish that can accompany scallops. The juicy, sweet tomatoes and creamy, buttery avocado create a delicious contrast with the tender scallops, providing a light and vibrant addition to the meal.

14. Cauliflower Mash

Cauliflower mash is a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs well with scallops. The creamy, smooth texture of the cauliflower mash complements the tender scallops, while its mild flavor allows the scallops to shine.

15. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is a colorful and earthy side dish that can be served with scallops. The sweet, roasted beets contrast with the tender scallops, while the tangy dressing adds brightness and acidity to the dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

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