The first time I prepared scallop crudo, I found myself captivated by the sheer elegance of it all. Picture this: paper-thin slices of ultra-fresh scallops, glistening like jewels, marinated in a zingy blend of soy, lime, and a hint of warmth from ginger. It’s one of those dishes that feels decadently sophisticated yet is surprisingly simple to whip up in just 10 minutes! Perfect for a romantic date night or a stunning appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe invites you to enjoy raw seafood in a way that feels both luxurious and effortless.
What’s even better? While scallops steal the spotlight, you can easily swap them for sushi-grade salmon, tuna, or trout if the mood strikes. Get ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a delightful culinary experience, because this scallop crudo is about to become your new go-to dish for quick gourmet flair!
Why love 10-Minute Scallop Crudo?
Simple preparation: This 10-Minute Scallop Crudo requires no cooking and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Fresh ingredients: Trust me, using sushi-grade scallops ensures a sublime taste that’s both sweet and tender.
Versatile substitute options: If scallops aren’t your favorite, this recipe easily adapts to salmon, tuna, or trout, giving you flexibility.
Elegant presentation: The visually stunning layers of translucent scallops elevate any dining experience, ensuring your dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Crowd-pleasing flavor: The combination of soy, lime, and ginger brings a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with champagne, making it an ideal starter for special occasions.
Ready to dive into this luxurious dish? Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to prepare raw seafood safely.
10-Minute Scallop Crudo Ingredients
For the Crudo
• Large Dry Sea Scallops – Ensure you are using sushi-grade scallops for the perfect sweet and delicate flavor.
• Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice adds acidity and brightness that really elevates the dish.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; feel free to substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Rice Vinegar or Mirin – Adds a hint of sweetness and acidity; rice vinegar gives a punch of sharp flavor.
• Ginger Paste – Offers warmth and depth; you can grate fresh ginger as an alternative for a vibrant kick.
• Thai Chili – Supplies a gentle, spicy heat; be sure to handle with gloves to avoid irritation.
• Chives – These provide a mild onion flavor for garnish; swap with finely chopped green onions or shallots if you like.
• Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances flavor beautifully; use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Feeling inspired to create your very own 10-Minute Scallop Crudo? Let’s dive in and explore this delightful recipe together!
How to Make 10-Minute Scallop Crudo
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Dry Scallops: Pat the large dry sea scallops gently with paper towels, removing any excess moisture to ensure they marinate evenly and maintain their delicate texture.
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Remove Side Muscle: Carefully lift and peel away the tough side muscle from each scallop; this step is crucial for achieving the perfect mouthfeel and ensuring every bite is tender.
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Slice Scallops: Using a sharp knife, slice each scallop horizontally into 3-4 paper-thin pieces. A steady hand is key here for those elegant, translucent slices!
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Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger paste. Taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure it’s bursting with flavor!
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Plate: On a beautiful serving plate, spoon a portion of the marinade as a base. Arrange the scallop slices in an overlapping circular fashion, showcasing their beauty, and drizzle the remaining marinade over the top.
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Garnish: Finish by topping with sliced Thai chilies, a sprinkle of chives, and a light dusting of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately for the freshest experience.
Optional: For an extra touch, serve with additional lime wedges on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
10-Minute Scallop Crudo Variations
Feel free to explore creative twists on this delightful dish and make it your own!
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Salmon Swap: Substitute scallops with sushi-grade salmon for a richer taste and vibrant color. Just as elegant and delicious, this option offers a familiar flavor that many love.
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Tuna Twist: Use sushi-grade tuna instead for a different texture that still maintains the freshness and appeal. Tuna crudo will deliver a savory bite that’s sure to impress.
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Trout Variation: Swap in trout for a mild flavor profile. Its buttery richness adds a lovely depth, making your dish uniquely delightful.
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Citrus Infusion: Consider swapping lime juice with yuzu or grapefruit juice for a refreshing twist. The slight bitterness adds intrigue, while vibrant citrus notes elevate the entire dish.
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Herb Enhancement: Experiment with microgreens or fresh herbs like cilantro or dill. They add a pop of color and an aromatic freshness that enhances every bite.
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Spice it Up: Experiment with different chili varieties, like jalapeños or serranos, for a unique heat level. Adjust accordingly to your spice preference for that perfect kick.
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Vinegar Variety: Try flavored vinegar, like champagne vinegar or apple cider vinegar, for a different tang. It introduces a new layer of acidity that complements the seafood beautifully.
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Garnish Greatness: Add edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Not only do they make the dish visually appealing, but they also bring subtle flavors that can complement the crudo perfectly.
Expert Tips for 10-Minute Scallop Crudo
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Choose Sushi-Grade: Always select sushi-grade scallops to ensure safety and maintain the delicate flavors essential for your 10-Minute Scallop Crudo.
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Cut Right Before Serving: Slice the scallops just before plating to preserve their freshness and texture; doing this in advance can lead to a less appealing dish.
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Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of Thai chili and gradually add more; this way, you can control the heat level to suit your taste.
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Marinade Magic: Feel free to play around with the marinade ingredients. Adding a splash of yuzu or grapefruit juice can create unique flavor profiles that elevate your scallop crudo.
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Presentation Matters: Use a beautiful platter and arrange the scallops thoughtfully. The visual appeal is a significant part of the dish’s charm, making it perfect for special occasions.
Make Ahead Options
These 10-Minute Scallop Crudo with Soy, Lime, and Ginger are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger paste, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavor. For the scallops, slice them just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and delicate, as cutting them too early may compromise their texture. When you’re ready to impress your guests, plate the scallops, drizzle with your prepped marinade, and finish with toppings like sliced chilies and chives for a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick and effortless!
What to Serve with 10-Minute Scallop Crudo with Soy, Lime, and Ginger?
Imagine a feast where each component not only enhances but elevates the delicate flavors of your crudo, creating a harmonious dining experience.
- Crispy Rice Cakes: These add a delightful crunch, balancing the smooth texture of the scallops with a touch of savory goodness.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad offers a crisp, bright contrast that perfectly complements the crudo’s flavors.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness and warm spices harmonize beautifully with the zesty notes of lime in the scallops.
- Garlicky Sautéed Spinach: This dish adds a vibrant green element, providing a mild, earthy flavor that rounds out the meal well.
- Light Pinot Grigio: A glass of this wine enhances the dish with its crispness, elevating your upscale dining experience.
- Mango Sorbet: Cool, sweet, and citrusy, this serves as a refreshing dessert that ties back to the zingy notes of the 10-Minute Scallop Crudo.
- Herbed Quinoa: A nutty base, enriched with herbs, complements the raw seafood, providing a satisfying, wholesome side.
- Pineapple Salsa: Bright and tropical, this can provide a sweet-tart punch that pairs wonderfully with the umami flavors of the crudo.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: For a non-alcoholic pairing that echoes the zesty notes of your dish, this drink is a perfect match!
With these fantastic pairings, your meal will be a delightful journey of flavors and textures that everyone will remember!
How to Store and Freeze 10-Minute Scallop Crudo
Fridge: Keep any leftover scallop crudo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Best enjoyed fresh, as the texture may change.
Marinade Storage: Prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add fresh scallop slices right before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Although not ideal for this dish, if necessary, freeze the sliced scallops for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before use, but enjoy fresh for optimum taste.
Reheating: This dish is best served cold; avoid reheating as it can compromise the delicate texture of the scallops.
10-Minute Scallop Crudo with Soy, Lime, and Ginger Recipe FAQs
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use large dry sea scallops that are sushi-grade for this 10-Minute Scallop Crudo. This ensures both safety and the sweet, delicate flavor that truly elevates your dish.
How long can I store leftover scallop crudo?
For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 hours. The scallops start to lose their delicate texture and flavor if left longer, so it’s best enjoyed right away!
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Very! You can mix the marinade up to 24 hours before serving and keep it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to slice the scallops just before you serve to maintain their freshness and optimal taste.
How should I freeze scallops for crudo?
If you need to freeze the sliced scallops, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight to preserve texture, but keeping them fresh is always best for crudo!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! While this recipe is gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, always check for any allergies regarding seafood and the other ingredients used. If you’re hosting guests, it’s a kind gesture to inquire about dietary restrictions beforehand.
What do I do if I find the dish too spicy?
If you find the heat from the Thai chili to be too intense, simply reduce the amount used or omit it altogether. You can also balance the heat by adding an extra drizzle of olive oil or a dash more lime juice to mellow the flavors. Always taste as you go!
Quick and Fresh 10-Minute Scallop Crudo with Soy, Lime, & Ginger
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the scallops gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Remove the tough side muscle from each scallop.
- Slice each scallop horizontally into 3-4 thin pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger paste.
- On a serving plate, spoon some marinade as a base and arrange scallop slices on top.
- Top with sliced chili, chives, and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.