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What to Serve With Scallops and Bacon: 15 Best Side Dishes

Enhancing the dining experience with scallops and bacon begins with the right side dishes. Lemon garlic asparagus brings a burst of citrus and a crunchy texture, making it a delightful match. Try creamy risotto, with its velvety texture and truffle oil finish, for an elegant touch. A fresh spinach salad with feta and a zesty citrus dressing adds a crisp contrast. Mashed potatoes, infused with herb butter and truffle oil, offer rich, earthy flavors. For a nutritious option, quinoa pilaf provides delightful texture and taste. These sides create a well-balanced meal, and there are even more options to discover.

Lemon Garlic Asparagus

cooking with fresh produce

Lemon garlic asparagus is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements the rich taste of scallops and bacon.

The asparagus spears are lightly sautéed with garlic, then infused with a touch of citrus zest for an invigorating kick.

To add a delightful crunch, sprinkle almond garnish on top.

This combination creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Creamy Risotto

savory arborio rice dish

Complementing the zest of lemon garlic asparagus, creamy risotto offers a rich and velvety texture that pairs exquisitely with the savory notes of scallops and bacon.

Made with arborio rice, this luxurious side dish becomes even more indulgent when finished with a drizzle of truffle oil.

The combination elevates the meal, creating a sophisticated dining experience that is both satisfying and elegant.

Spinach Salad

healthy leafy green lunch

A fresh spinach salad introduces a crisp and invigorating element to the meal, balancing the richness of scallops and bacon.

The addition of a feta crumble enhances the dish with a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

A zesty citrus dressing brings a revitalizing zing, tying together the savory and fresh components beautifully.

This side dish is both simple and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion.

Mashed Potatoes

creamy comfort food classic

How do you elevate the classic comfort of mashed potatoes to harmonize with the savory notes of scallops and bacon? By incorporating creamy herb butter and a drizzle of aromatic truffle oil, you can transform this humble side dish into something truly luxurious.

The rich, earthy flavors of the truffle oil pair beautifully with the buttery, smooth texture, creating a perfect complement to your main dish.

Quinoa Pilaf

quinoa and veggies recipe

Quinoa pilaf offers a nutritious and flavorful side dish that pairs seamlessly with the rich profile of scallops and bacon. Its nutty flavor complements the savory notes perfectly, while being protein rich adds a wholesome touch to the meal.

This versatile grain, cooked with herbs and vegetables, provides a delightful texture and taste that elevates your dining experience, making it both satisfying and healthy.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

delicious and nutritious side dish

Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a robust and earthy complement to the rich flavors of scallops and bacon. Drizzle them with balsamic for a touch of sweetness, creating a perfect balance.

For added texture and a nutty flavor, sprinkle toasted pecans on top. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch, making it an unforgettable side dish.

Grilled Zucchini

delicious summer bbq option

Grilled zucchini offers a light and fresh contrast to the rich flavors of scallops and bacon, making it an ideal side dish.

Whether you opt for zucchini boats filled with savory ingredients or zucchini noodles tossed in a light dressing, this versatile vegetable adds a delightful texture and taste.

Its simplicity allows the main dish to shine while providing a healthy, delicious complement.

Cauliflower Rice

low carb rice substitute

Another excellent accompaniment to scallops and bacon is cauliflower rice, which offers a low-carb alternative to traditional grains while absorbing and enhancing the savory flavors of the main dish.

Known for its nutritional benefits, cauliflower rice is rich in vitamins and minerals. Simple cooking techniques like sautéing with garlic or steaming can bring out its mild, nutty flavor, making it a versatile side.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

tasty side dish recipe

Elevating the natural sweetness of green beans, garlic butter infuses this simple side dish with a rich, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with scallops and bacon.

The combination not only enhances the meal's taste but also offers nutritional benefits.

For a perfect wine pairing, consider a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay to complement the dish's vibrant flavors and textures.

Sweet Potato Fries

sounds delicious and crispy

Sweet potato fries provide a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch that perfectly complements the savory flavors of scallops and bacon.

Beyond their delicious taste, they offer health benefits like being rich in vitamins and fiber.

Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli or spicy ketchup, to elevate the dining experience and satisfy diverse palates.

Arugula Salad

healthy summer picnic dish

Arugula salad introduces a peppery freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, umami flavors of scallops and bacon.

Toss in some creamy goat cheese for a delightful tang, and sprinkle toasted almonds on top for a satisfying crunch.

This simple yet elegant side dish not only balances the meal but also adds a vibrant, nutritious component, making it an excellent pairing choice.

Parmesan Polenta

creamy cheesy corn dish

Parmesan polenta provides a creamy and comforting base that perfectly complements the savory notes of scallops and bacon.

Its creamy texture and rich cheese flavor add depth to the dish, enhancing the delicate sweetness of the scallops and the smoky taste of the bacon.

This side dish balances the flavors beautifully, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Sautéed Spinach

healthy and delicious side

Sautéed spinach provides a nutritious and vibrant complement to the rich flavors of scallops and bacon. Packed with health benefits, spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.

For perfect results, cook spinach quickly over medium heat with a touch of olive oil and garlic. This simple cooking tip guarantees the spinach retains its bright color and fresh taste, enhancing your meal.

Wild Rice

harvested in the north

Wild rice offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory combination of scallops and bacon. Its unique flavor profile complements both the sweetness of scallops and the saltiness of bacon.

Cooking methods for wild rice vary, but it's typically simmered to bring out its distinct taste. This side dish adds a hearty, wholesome element to your meal.

Can the Side Dishes for Sushi also be Paired with Scallops and Bacon?

When it comes to pairing side dishes with scallops and bacon, the best side dishes for sushi can be a perfect match. Delicious options like edamame, pickled ginger, and seaweed salad can complement the flavors of scallops and bacon, making for a delightful and well-balanced meal.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

cooked carrots with balsamic

Complementing the nutty wild rice, balsamic glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness and acidity that enhances the flavors of scallops and bacon.

The tender carrots, coated in a rich balsamic glaze, pair wonderfully with caramelized onions.

A light honey drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness, making this side dish both delightful and well-balanced.

Perfect for a sophisticated, yet inviting meal.