Air Fryer Scallops

Every time I make Air Fryer Scallops, it takes me back to those beautiful summer days by the seaside with my family. We’d visit the coast, and I’d always delight in the fresh, sweet flavor of the scallops straight from the ocean. It was a real treat to sit down together, savoring the catch of the day while the salty breeze danced around us. Cooking these scallops in my air fryer brings back that joy and warmth, not just for me but for everyone who gathers around my table. The first time I made them, my husband couldn’t stop raving about how perfectly tender they turned out. I just know that once you try this recipe, you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort that comes with enjoying a lovely meal made with love.

How to make Air Fryer Scallops

Ingredients:

To make this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound sea scallops: This is the star of the show! Fresh scallops have a delicate flavor and are simply divine when cooked just right. Look for plump, moist scallops at your local market.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to give the scallops a nice golden color when they cook. You can also use melted butter for a richer taste.

• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops. Don’t hold back on this!

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: A dash of this adds such a heavenly aroma and flavor. If you love garlic like I do, feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead.

• 1 tablespoon paprika: This not only adds a vibrant color but also gives a subtle smokiness that complements the scallops perfectly.

• Lemon wedges for serving: Fresh lemon juice is the perfect finishing touch. It brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the scallops.

Making amazing Air Fryer Scallops is a lot easier than you might think, and I’m here to walk you through each step!

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this is key for achieving that perfect crispiness!

Next, pat your scallops dry with paper towels. This step might seem small, but moisture is the enemy of that beautiful sear you want to achieve. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I always find that giving them a good rub helps every bit of flavor cling to the scallops.

Now, drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned scallops. You want just enough to coat them lightly—not too much or they’ll become greasy. Gently toss the scallops to make sure they’re evenly coated.

When your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to place the scallops in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the basket, or they won’t cook evenly.

Cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes. I like to flip mine halfway through to ensure they get that beautiful coloration on both sides. Your kitchen will start to smell absolutely divine! You’ll know they’re done when they’re opaque and have a lovely golden color.

Finally, serve your beautifully cooked scallops with lemon wedges on the side for that delightful squeeze of freshness. Trust me, the combination is simply mouthwatering!

Why I Love Making This Dish:

I love making Air Fryer Scallops not only because of their incredible flavor but also for how easy they are to prepare. They feel so special yet come together quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Plus, using the air fryer means you get all that flavor without a lot of fuss and mess. I find myself making these more often than I’d admit, and they always leave everyone asking for seconds.

What You’ll Need:

To whip up this scrumptious dish, you won’t need much. The air fryer is undoubtedly the star device here—it’s my best friend in the kitchen! If you don’t have one yet, I highly recommend getting one. It makes cooking so much easier and healthier, too. Besides the air fryer, you’ll need basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, measuring spoons, and of course, some good old-fashioned tongs to flip those beautiful scallops.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this is key for that crispy exterior!
2. Pat the scallops dry. Moist scallops will steam instead of sear.
3. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give them a good rub!
4. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
5. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Check for doneness; they should be opaque and golden.
8. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten up the flavor.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Make sure your scallops are dry before seasoning. This small step makes a huge difference!
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this will prevent even cooking.
• If you’re a garlic lover like me, adding a touch of fresh minced garlic can take the flavor up a notch.
• Feel free to experiment with spices! A little cayenne or Italian seasoning can add fun twists to the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Sides:

Air Fryer Scallops are versatile, so you can pair them with a variety of side dishes. I love serving them alongside some creamy risotto or a simple arugula salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon. A side of garlic bread is also a big hit! You can’t go wrong with some seasonal veggies, either—roasted asparagus or zucchini would complement the dish beautifully.

Leftovers:

If you have any scallops left over (which is rare in my house!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for a couple of days. To reheat, I recommend quickly popping them back into the air fryer on low heat for a few minutes to bring back their tenderness.

FAQ Section:

Can I use frozen scallops? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? You could use a regular skillet—just make sure you keep a close eye on them, as they can cook quickly!

Are scallops healthy? Yes, they are! Scallops are low in calories and high in protein, making them a great choice for a healthy meal.

Is there a way to make them spice without overpowering the scallops? Of course! A light sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder can give you that warmth without drowning out the delicate flavor of the scallops.

This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. The charm of these Air Fryer Scallops lies in their simplicity and the lovely memories they bring back. I know you’ll love them just as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. I’m looking forward to hearing your stories!