Air Fryer Scallops

Tender, juicy, and perfectly caramelized, these Air Fryer Scallops are the ideal quick seafood dish for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 10 minutes of cook time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality scallops at home without the hassle. They’re buttery on the inside, golden on the outside, and seriously delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Cooks in under 10 minutes with minimal prep.
Healthy – Air frying means less oil and no greasy mess.
Elegant & Flavorful – Perfect for dinner parties or date nights.
Crisp on the Outside, Tender on the Inside – Ideal scallop texture every time.
Versatile – Great with pasta, salads, or a simple lemon butter sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scallops:

• 1 lb large sea scallops (patted dry)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for color and depth)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Optional Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer (basket-style or tray-style)
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Small saucepan (for garlic butter)
• Meat thermometer (optional for precision)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Scallops
Use paper towels to pat the scallops completely dry.
This step is crucial for a good sear and caramelization in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Scallops
In a bowl, toss the scallops with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Coat evenly and let them sit while you preheat the air fryer.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Preheating helps the scallops get that golden-brown edge quickly.

Step 4: Air Fry the Scallops
Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
They’re done when opaque and golden around the edges, with an internal temperature of 120–130°F.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (Optional)
While the scallops are cooking, melt butter in a small pan over low heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice and parsley, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove scallops from the air fryer and drizzle with garlic butter sauce if using.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Scallops
Pat Dry Thoroughly – Moisture prevents browning, so dry them well.
Do Not Overcrowd – Leave space between each scallop for even airflow.
Watch Closely – Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery.
Use Similar Sizes – Try to use scallops that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Add Fresh Herbs – Parsley, thyme, or dill enhance flavor without overpowering the scallops.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Pasta – Toss cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
Fresh Salad – A bed of arugula, avocado, and tomatoes pairs beautifully.
Mashed Cauliflower or Potatoes – Creamy and comforting sides.
Grilled Asparagus – A simple veggie side with a hint of char.
Risotto – Creamy lemon or parmesan risotto makes it a complete, luxurious meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Do not freeze cooked scallops as they can become rubbery upon thawing.

Reheating:
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Stovetop: Lightly reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or oil.
Microwave: Not recommended, as it can overcook and toughen the scallops.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. Do I need to remove the side muscle?
Yes, if present. It’s a small, tough flap on the side of the scallop and can be pulled off easily.

3. Can I use bay scallops instead?
You can, but they’re much smaller and will cook faster—usually around 3–4 minutes total.

4. What can I use instead of garlic butter?
Try a lemon herb vinaigrette or a drizzle of soy-ginger sauce for a different twist.

Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Scallops are a perfect blend of convenience and elegance. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want something different on a weeknight, this recipe delivers stunning results with very little effort. With their crisp golden edges and soft, buttery center, these scallops will become a go-to favorite.

Pair them with your favorite sides, drizzle them with garlic butter, or toss them over a fresh salad—the possibilities are endless. Try it out and taste the magic!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 21g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 320mg

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