Introduction
Air Fryer Scallops are a classic, elegant dish, perfect for appetizers, light dinners, or special occasions. These tender, golden scallops, lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, deliver a delicate, buttery flavor with a crisp exterior. Presented on a white ceramic plate, garnished with chopped parsley or lemon wedges, these Air Fryer Scallops offer a vibrant, sophisticated aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a quick, restaurant-quality seafood dish that brings refined, coastal flavors to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Air Fryer Scallops:
- 1 lb large sea scallops (16–20 count, patted dry)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Optional: Chopped parsley, lemon wedges
- Suggested Accompaniments: Mixed greens, crusty bread
- Suggested Pairings: White wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc), sparkling water
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic plate
- Suggested Equipment: Air fryer, tongs, small bowl, paper towels, pastry brush
Step-by-Step Process
- Prepare Scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Brush scallops with the mixture. Taste a small pinch of the seasoning mix (without raw scallops) and adjust with an additional pinch of salt or pepper for a balanced flavor.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Cook Scallops: Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway with tongs, until golden and opaque (internal temperature of 145°F).
- Finish: Brush cooked scallops with melted butter for extra richness.
- Serve: Arrange on a white ceramic plate, garnish with parsley or lemon wedges. Serve immediately with mixed greens, crusty bread, white wine, or sparkling water.
Tips for Better Air Fryer Scallops
- Pat scallops thoroughly dry to achieve a golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Taste the seasoning mix before applying to balance savory and smoky flavors, as spices vary.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking; cook in batches if needed.
- Use large sea scallops (not bay scallops) for the best texture and presentation.
- Use a white ceramic plate for an elegant presentation, highlighting the golden scallops and vibrant garnishes.
- Make ahead: Season scallops and refrigerate up to 2 hours before cooking; pat dry again before air frying.
- Check doneness with a thermometer to avoid overcooking, which toughens scallops.
- Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic plate with bright parsley and lemon wedges for a refined, inviting look.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Air Fryer Scallops: Naturally gluten-free; ensure spices are gluten-free certified.
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute scallops with king oyster mushrooms, sliced into thick rounds, and use vegan butter.
- Spicy Air Fryer Scallops: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Lemon-Herb Scallops: Add 1 tsp lemon zest and 1/2 tsp dried thyme to the seasoning.
- Garlic Butter Scallops: Increase garlic powder to 1/2 tsp and add 1 minced garlic clove to the melted butter.
- Parmesan-Crusted Scallops: Sprinkle 2 tbsp grated Parmesan over the scallops before air frying.
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: Wrap each scallop with a half-strip of bacon before air frying; increase cooking time to 8–10 minutes.
- Low-Sodium Scallops: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp and use unsalted butter.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore texture.
- Freezing is not recommended, as scallops become rubbery upon thawing.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 1 hour due to the seafood.
- Use leftovers in salads or pasta dishes with a light lemon sauce.
- Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the delicate, buttery flavor.
- Presented on a white ceramic plate with vibrant garnishes for an elegant, inviting charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 4 servings (4–5 scallops each):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% Daily Value
- Iron: 4% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sodium; use the low-sodium version. Pair with greens for balance.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Scallops recipe offers a golden, elegant dish, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality classic. Its quick preparation and sophisticated presentation make it a favorite. The tender scallops and subtle seasonings delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its refined, versatile appeal.
Air Fryer Scallops Recipe: Golden and Elegant
Ingredients
- 1 lb large sea scallops 16–20 count
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika optional
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- Optional: Parsley lemon wedges
- Suggested Pairings: Mixed greens white wine
Instructions
- Pat scallops dry; mix oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush on scallops; taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Air fry the scallops 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
- Brush with butter; serve on a white ceramic plate with parsley, lemon, greens, and wine.
Notes
- Pat scallops dry for a golden sear.
- Store in the fridge for 2 days; do not freeze.
- Try spicy or lemon-herb variations.
- Pair with bread.
