What can be more enjoyable as a date night than good food, good company, and a great soak in your hot tub? The summer months provide the perfect time to combine all three and have a terrific night with a loved one.

Start out by creating the mood at the hot tub. Stringing twinkle lights up in nearby trees and bushes can lend a magical accent to your hot tub…a few well-placed candles couldn’t hurt either! Have some lovely music wafting through the air.

Set a great looking table near the hot tub, complete with cloth napkins (make it look special!), and a great floral centerpiece.

Next, create a great meal using your Big Green Egg. Need a terrific summer time dish? We have it right here!

Red Chile Scallops with Mango Mint Salsa

For the salsa:

¾ cup fresh mango, diced

¼ cup red bell pepper, diced

¼ cup red onion, diced

¼ cup scallions, thinly sliced

2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, crushed

2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tsp honey

½ tsp kosher salt

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Combine the above ingredients in a small bowl and stir well. Chill while preparing the scallops.

For the scallops:

1 pound large sea scallops (about 12)

2 tbsp red chile rub

Season the scallops generously with the chile rub.

Set the Big Green Egg for direct cooking with the Cast Iron Grid and preheat to 500°F. Place the seasoned scallops on the grid and close the lid of the Egg. Grill the scallops for about two minutes on each side, or until lightly cooked with a golden finish.

Place 3-4 scallops on each plate and top generously with at least ¼ cup of the mango salsa and serve immediately. Pair it with a terrific white wine.

After enjoying this yummy dish, retreat to the hot tub for a relaxing soak and a chance to have some great conversation and reconnection time. What a great way to spend a quiet summer evening!