Seared Scallop Tacos with Pineapple Salsa: Your Ultimate Guide to Fresh, Flavorful Seafood Tacos
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with these exquisite Seared Scallop Tacos. Served on warm corn tortillas, these delightful tacos feature perfectly seared scallops, a vibrant homemade pineapple salsa, tangy pickled red onions, and a crisp cabbage slaw. This recipe transforms fresh seafood into an unforgettable meal that’s both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering like Cinco de Mayo.
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Why You’ll Love These Seared Scallop Tacos
These scallop tacos aren’t just a meal; they’re an experience. From the delightful simplicity to the explosion of fresh flavors, here are several reasons why this recipe will quickly become a household favorite:
- Effortlessly Easy & Quick: Don’t let the gourmet appearance fool you! Most of the preparation involves simple ingredient chopping, which you can easily tackle ahead of time. The actual cooking of the scallops is incredibly fast—just a minute or two per side—making this an ideal dish for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. It’s a fantastic solution for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Irresistible Homemade Pineapple Salsa: The star of these tacos, beyond the succulent scallops, is undoubtedly the vibrant homemade pineapple salsa. Its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy profile perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the scallops. Making it from scratch ensures maximum freshness and allows you to customize the spice level to your liking. The bright, zesty notes of the pineapple, cilantro, and lime truly elevate the entire dish, creating a balanced and refreshing contrast to the richness of the seared seafood.
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with lean protein from the scallops and a colorful array of fresh vegetables in the salsa and slaw, these tacos offer a wholesome and nutritious meal. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet.
- Customizable & Versatile: This recipe provides a fantastic base for customization. Easily swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or add extra veggies to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftover produce and keep your meals exciting. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, everyone can build their perfect taco.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the pineapple salsa, red cabbage, and green cilantro against the golden-brown scallops make these tacos incredibly appealing. They’re a feast for the eyes as much as they are for the palate, perfect for entertaining guests or simply brightening up your dinner table.
Essential Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect scallop taco starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to fit your pantry or dietary needs:
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is excellent for searing scallops, imparting a subtle flavor. However, any neutral oil with a high smoke point like grapeseed oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil will work equally well to achieve that perfect golden crust without burning.
- Scallops: These tender, sweet morsels are the undeniable highlight. For the best results, look for “dry-packed” sea scallops, as “wet-packed” scallops are often treated with preservatives that add water, making them harder to sear properly. If scallops aren’t your preference or readily available, succulent shrimp, flaky mahi-mahi, firm halibut, or even cod make fantastic seafood taco alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly for your chosen protein.
- Corn Tortillas: The traditional choice for tacos, corn tortillas offer a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a soft, pliable texture when warmed. If you prefer, flour tortillas provide a softer, more bread-like bite, while hard shell tacos deliver a satisfying crunch. For a low-carb option, consider sturdy lettuce wraps (like butter lettuce or romaine hearts) which add a refreshing crispness.
- Red Cabbage: Finely shredded red cabbage contributes a beautiful pop of color and a delightful crunch to the tacos, balancing the softer textures of the scallops and salsa. If red cabbage isn’t available, a pre-made coleslaw mix can save you prep time, or you can use other crisp greens like finely shredded green cabbage, romaine lettuce, or even spinach for a milder flavor.
- Jalapeño Peppers: For those who love a kick, fresh jalapeño adds a welcome heat. To temper the spice, remove the seeds and membranes before slicing. If you prefer a milder flavor but still want that zesty tang, pickled jalapeño peppers are a great choice. For a completely heat-free version, simply omit them. Feel free to experiment with other chilies like serrano for more heat or a poblano for a milder, smokier note.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole acts as a luscious base, adding richness and a cooling counterpoint to the vibrant salsa and spicy elements. You can absolutely use high-quality store-bought guacamole for convenience. However, making your own with fresh, ripe avocados, lime juice, a touch of salt, and maybe some minced onion and cilantro is simple and incredibly rewarding.
Pineapple Salsa Essentials
The pineapple salsa is what truly makes these tacos sing. Here’s what you need to create this flavor-packed topping:
- Pineapple: Freshly diced pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, offering a juicy sweetness. However, canned pineapple (drained well) or even thawed frozen pineapple chunks can be used in a pinch. For a tropical twist, consider replacing pineapple with diced mango or peach for a different fruity sweetness.
- Red Pepper: Diced red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful crimson color to the salsa. Green peppers can provide a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor, while yellow or orange bell peppers offer similar sweetness to red, maintaining the vibrant aesthetic.
- Red Onion: Finely diced red onion provides a sharp, pungent bite that is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the pineapple. If you find raw red onion too strong, you can soak it in ice water for 10-15 minutes to mellow its flavor. Yellow or white onions can be used, though they are generally stronger. For a very mild option, or if you simply don’t like onions, you can leave them out entirely.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is paramount for brightening the salsa and adding a vital tangy acidity. Bottled lime juice will work if fresh limes are unavailable, but the flavor will be less vibrant.
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro brings a distinctive, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy flavor that is classic in Mexican-inspired dishes. If you’re not a fan of cilantro (some people find it tastes like soap), fresh parsley is a good alternative, offering a clean, green flavor without the polarizing taste.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the salsa. Add to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed.
Crafting Your Scallop Tacos: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Components
Begin by making your vibrant pineapple salsa. In a medium bowl, combine all the diced salsa ingredients: fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, a generous squeeze of lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to ensure everything is well mixed. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 10-15 minutes while you prepare other components; this brief resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simultaneously, thinly slice your red cabbage and jalapeño peppers, preparing them for your taco assembly line. The key to a great taco is having all your components ready to go!
Step 2: Master the Scallop Sear
Achieving a perfect sear on your scallops is crucial for tender, flavorful results. First, thoroughly dry your scallops with paper towels. This step is non-negotiable, as excess moisture will steam the scallops instead of searing them, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust. Season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil (or your chosen neutral oil) in a heavy-bottomed frying pan or cast-iron skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke lightly. Carefully add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for exactly 1 minute per side—use a timer! This quick, high-heat method creates a beautiful caramelized crust while keeping the interior succulent and tender. Remove them promptly from the pan to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Warm tortillas are essential for a truly authentic taco experience. While your scallops are searing or resting, heat your corn tortillas. The quickest method is to stack them and microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can warm them individually in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven alongside your scallop reheating if you’re making a larger batch.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve Your Tacos!
Now for the fun part: assembly! Lay out your warm tortillas. Spread a thin layer of creamy guacamole onto each, creating a rich base. Next, add a generous portion of your perfectly seared scallops, followed by a sprinkle of crisp red cabbage and those tangy pickled red onions (if using). Spoon a liberal amount of your fresh pineapple salsa over the top, and finish with a few slices of jalapeño for a little extra kick. Serve immediately and dive into the incredible explosion of flavors and textures!
The Best Taco Toppings to Elevate Your Meal
The beauty of tacos lies in their versatility and the endless possibilities for toppings. While our pineapple salsa is a star, adding a variety of textures and flavors can take your scallop tacos to the next level. This is also a fantastic opportunity to clear out your vegetable crisper with any extra goodies! Here are some yummy topping ideas to mix and match:
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
- Fresh Cilantro: More chopped fresh cilantro never hurts, especially if you love its distinctive, herbaceous taste.
- Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Beyond the pineapple salsa, a classic red salsa or fresh pico de gallo can add another layer of tomatoey goodness.
- Sour Cream or Lime Crema: A dollop of cool sour cream or a zesty lime crema (sour cream thinned with lime juice) provides a creamy contrast to the spicy and tangy elements.
- Spicy Mayo or Chipotle Aioli: For an extra creamy kick, a drizzle of spicy mayo or a smoky chipotle aioli complements seafood beautifully.
- Sliced Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or extra guacamole add richness and healthy fats.
- Pickled Red Onions: Their vibrant color and tangy-sweet crunch are an absolute must, cutting through the richness of the scallops.
- Cotija Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbly, salty cotija cheese offers a savory depth and authentic Mexican flair.
- Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes provide an additional peppery crunch and a refreshing bite.
- Hot Sauce: For the heat lovers, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can customize the spice level to perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scallop Tacos
What fish or seafood makes the best tacos?
While I adore these tacos with sweet, perfectly seared scallops, the world of seafood tacos is vast and delicious! If you’re not a fan of scallops or simply want to try something different, shrimp is an excellent choice due to its similar quick-cooking time and firm texture. Other fantastic options include flaky white fish like mahi-mahi, which offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor; tender halibut, known for its buttery texture; or even cod, which is robust enough to hold up to bold flavors. When substituting, remember to adjust cooking times – most fish fillets will cook quickly, similar to scallops.
How should the scallops be cooked for these tacos?
The absolute best way to cook scallops for these tacos is to sear them quickly in a hot frying pan. This high-heat method caramelizes the exterior, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust, while leaving the inside incredibly tender and juicy. The key is to pat them thoroughly dry before seasoning and searing them for approximately 1 minute per side. Avoid overcooking, as scallops can become tough and rubbery very quickly.
Do you need to soak scallops before cooking them?
No, there is generally no need to soak scallops before cooking. In fact, soaking them can introduce unwanted moisture, making it harder to achieve a good sear. The most important step before cooking is to thoroughly pat your scallops dry with paper towels. If you’ve purchased “wet-packed” scallops (which are often soaked in a phosphate solution), you might notice extra moisture. In this case, letting them sit on a paper-towel-lined plate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can help draw out some of that excess liquid, but direct soaking is usually unnecessary and counterproductive for searing.
How do you make the refreshing pineapple salsa?
Making this incredible pineapple salsa is surprisingly straightforward and yields maximum flavor impact! Simply combine one cup of finely diced fresh (or well-drained canned/thawed frozen) pineapple with one diced red bell pepper, one small diced red onion, one tablespoon of fresh lime juice, about one-third of a cup of chopped fresh cilantro, and half a teaspoon of salt. Mix all the ingredients gently, then let them sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The result is a sweet, tangy, and zesty salsa that perfectly complements the savory scallops.
What are some great side dishes to serve with scallop tacos?
Scallop tacos are quite a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with a light side can round out the experience. Consider serving them with a simple side of cilantro-lime rice, black beans, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, or even some tortilla chips with extra guacamole or your homemade pineapple salsa. For a more festive touch, grilled corn on the cob or a quick Mexican street corn salad would also be excellent.
Can I prepare components of the taco recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many elements of these scallop tacos can be prepared in advance, making assembly on the day of serving a breeze. The pineapple salsa can be made up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The cabbage can be sliced, and red onions can be pickled ahead of time as well. The guacamole is best made fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance if you press plastic wrap directly onto its surface to prevent browning. This makes these tacos perfect for entertaining or meal prepping for a busy week.
Storing and Reheating Your Scallop Tacos
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious scallop tacos beyond the initial meal. Leftover seared scallops should be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fresh taco toppings, including the pineapple salsa, cabbage slaw, and any leftover guacamole, can be stored in separate airtight containers for up to 5 days in the fridge, maintaining their freshness and texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, it’s best to reheat the scallops gently to preserve their delicate texture. The oven or a skillet are ideal methods. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the scallops for 5-10 minutes, or until just heated through. In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and warm the scallops for 1-2 minutes per side. For the tortillas, a quick microwave session (30 seconds) or a warm dry skillet will restore their pliability. Once warm, assemble your tacos with the cold, crisp toppings and salsa for a delightful reprise.
Freezing Scallops for Later Enjoyment
Cooked scallops are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have an abundance or want to prepare ahead, freezing them is an option for longer storage. Allow the cooked scallops to cool completely. Transfer them into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. For the best quality, consider flash-freezing them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag to prevent them from clumping together.
When you’re ready to use your frozen scallops, you can reheat them directly from frozen. Preheat your oven to a lower temperature, around 275°F (135°C), and bake them until they are thoroughly warmed through, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on their size. Avoid high heat as this can make them tough. While the texture might be slightly different than freshly cooked, they will still be delicious in your tacos.
More Irresistible Taco Recipes to Explore
If you’ve loved these scallop tacos, you’re in for a treat! Discover more fantastic taco recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and become new family favorites.
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Easiest Fish Tacos
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Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos {Bonefish Grill Copycat}
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The Best Carne Asada Tacos
Recommended Meal Prep Tools for This Recipe
Streamline your taco preparation and storage with these handy kitchen tools:
- Get these metal taco holders for easy assembly and a beautiful presentation. They’re also perfect for heating your tacos in the oven!
- Organize your delicious leftovers with these convenient square glass meal prep bowls. They’re excellent for keeping ingredients fresh and simplify future meals.
Seared Scallop Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
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Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 24 scallops
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, sliced
- 1 cup store bought guacamole
Pineapple Salsa
- 1 cup pineapple diced (you can use canned, frozen or fresh – I used fresh in this recipe)
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine all pineapple salsa ingredients (diced pineapple, red pepper, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt). Stir gently and set aside to allow the flavors to meld. Meanwhile, thinly slice the red cabbage and jalapeño peppers, preparing all your fresh toppings.
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Thoroughly dry scallops using clean paper towels, removing any excess moisture for a perfect sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan (preferably cast iron) over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Carefully add the dried scallops to the hot pan in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Sear for precisely 1 minute per side (a timer is highly recommended!) until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the scallops are cooked through but still tender.
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While scallops are cooking, warm your corn tortillas. Stack them and microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can heat them in a dry skillet for 15-20 seconds per side.
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Remove seared scallops from heat onto a paper-towel lined plate to absorb any residual oil. To assemble your tacos, spread each warm tortilla with a thin layer of guacamole. Then, layer with crisp red cabbage, your perfectly seared scallops, a generous spoonful of the fresh pineapple salsa, and a few slices of jalapeño. Serve immediately and savor every bite!
Notes
If scallops aren’t your preference or you’re looking for an alternative, feel free to substitute them with shrimp or another favorite kind of seafood for these flavorful tacos.
Store any leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain tenderness.
Raw scallops can be frozen for up to 3 months. For cooked scallops, ensure they are completely cooled before freezing in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Reheat cooked frozen scallops in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition
