Scallops have always held a special place in my culinary adventures, especially those shared with family and friends. Growing up, seafood was a rare treat, making every occasion we had it memorable. One summer, during a family vacation on the coast of Maine, I experienced the freshest, most delicious scallops right off the boat. This memory has since inspired my love for cooking and experimenting with seafood recipes at home.
One of my favorite and simplest ways to enjoy scallops is using an air fryer. This method not only keeps the scallops tender and juicy but also gives them a perfect golden crust. Plus, it’s incredibly quick, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering.
For this recipe, you will need just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. The key to achieving the perfect air fryer scallops is to start with dry scallops. Patting them dry ensures that they sear nicely and don’t steam, which helps develop that beautiful golden exterior.
Once your scallops are ready, season them with sea salt and black pepper. I like to use freshly ground black pepper for an extra punch of flavor. Brushing the scallops with melted butter before cooking adds a rich taste that complements their natural sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even infuse the butter with a clove of crushed garlic or a sprig of fresh thyme for an additional layer of flavor.
Cooking the scallops in the air fryer is a breeze. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook the scallops for 5-7 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re slightly golden and firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook them; scallops can become rubbery if left in the fryer for too long.
Once they’re done, brush the scallops with the remaining melted butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with thin slices of lemon. The lemon not only adds a burst of freshness but also balances the richness of the butter.
If you’re serving these scallops as part of a larger meal, they pair wonderfully with a light, crisp salad or some roasted vegetables. For a touch of indulgence, you could even serve them atop a creamy risotto or a bed of silky mashed potatoes.
This air fryer scallop recipe is not only quick and easy but also delivers a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these scallops are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your seafood repertoire.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Scallops
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Ingredients
- 1/2 pound sea scallops
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 small lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Directions
- Pat the sea scallops dry to eliminate any excess moisture. Season with sea salt and black pepper, then coat with one tablespoon of melted butter.
- Coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the seasoned scallops in a single layer.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the scallops for 5-7 minutes, turning them midway through the cooking time. The scallops should be slightly golden and firm when done.
- Remove the scallops from the air fryer once cooked. Brush with the remaining melted butter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon slices.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a good texture.
What can I serve with air fryer scallops?
Air fryer scallops pair well with a variety of sides such as rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also complement well with a light sauce or dipping sauce.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
The scallops are done when they turn slightly golden and feel firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them tough, so it’s important to monitor them closely during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I use a different type of butter?
Yes, you can use any type of butter you prefer, including garlic butter or herb butter, to add extra flavor to your scallops.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the scallops in a skillet over medium-high heat, using the same seasonings and butter, until they are golden and cooked through.
Air Fryer Scallops
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound sea scallops
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons divided butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 small lemon thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Instructions
- Pat dry the sea scallops to remove any excess moisture. Season them with sea salt and black pepper, then brush with one tablespoon of melted butter.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the seasoned scallops in a single layer.
- Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the scallops for 5-7 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. The scallops are done when they are slightly golden and firm to the touch.
- Once cooked, remove the scallops from the air fryer. Brush them with the remaining melted butter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon slices.
