Easy Air Fryer Scallops
Introduction
Few dishes wow a table quite like perfectly seared scallops—tender, buttery, and delicately sweet. This Easy Air Fryer Scallops recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes, without the fuss of stovetop splatter or the need for culinary experience. Your air fryer guarantees that beautiful caramelized crust on the outside, leaving the centers deliciously juicy and tender.
If you’re hosting dinner or just want an elegant yet effortless weeknight meal, look no further. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, these scallops are a surefire hit for seafood lovers and anyone craving a touch of luxury at home.
The Secret to Air Fryer Scallops: Why This Recipe Works
Air fryers circulate hot air to mimic the golden, crispy finish you’d expect from pan-searing, but with a fraction of the oil and work. This method allows you to achieve scallops with a gorgeous crust while keeping them perfectly moist inside. Plus, clean-up is a breeze, making this technique perfect for busy cooks.
How to Prep Scallops for the Air Fryer
For the most tender scallops, pat them dry thoroughly to ensure a crisp exterior. If you want to add a hint of flavor and sophistication, a touch of garlic butter or lemon zest works wonders, but keep it simple—let the sweet, oceanic flavor of the scallops shine.
An even, uniform slice of lemon or a quick veggie garnish on the side can transform your plate into a work of art. Speed up your prep by using the convenient Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper—it makes slicing lemon wedges or dicing herbs effortless for a picture-perfect presentation.
Getting the Best Results with Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer (if needed) and use a light spritz of oil on both the basket and the scallops for optimal browning. For easy clean-up and to prevent sticking, line your air fryer basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or handy Air Fryer Paper Liners. This little step keeps those delicate scallops intact and ensures they’re easy to serve.
A high-quality, large-capacity air fryer like the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 ensures each scallop has plenty of space for even air circulation and browning, giving you pro-level results every time.
Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Scallops
Air-fried scallops shine as an appetizer or the star of a main dish. Serve over a crisp, refreshing salad using the Bentgo Salad Container for meal prep or picnics. Or plate with roasted veggies and a wedge of lemon for an elegant dinner.
Pair with your favorite wine or serve atop a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic—either way, your plating is bound to impress.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields 2 generous servings (or 4 appetizers), with each serving providing about 150–180 calories (based on 8 ounces of scallops and minimal added oils), low in fat and rich in lean protein and micronutrients. Light, nutritious, and decadent!
Easy Air Fryer Scallops (Recap)
This recipe truly captures the delicate flavor and texture of fresh scallops without the need for special equipment or hours in the kitchen. Juicy, caramelized, and ready in minutes—perfect for entertaining or an elevated weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry scallops ensure a crisp exterior and prevent steaming.
- Place scallops in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and if desired, garlic powder and lemon zest. For even and light oil application, use a fine mist from the YARRAMATE 16oz/470ml Oil Sprayer for Cooking.
- Preheat your COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 to 400°F (if required by model), and line the basket with Air Fryer Paper Liners or cut a piece from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy clean-up.
- Arrange scallops in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. Scallops are done when they are opaque and lightly browned on the edges; do not overcook. Use an instant-read thermometer (like the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking) to check that the internal temperature has reached 120–130°F for perfect doneness.
- Transfer scallops to a plate and garnish with freshly chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve immediately, as scallops are best enjoyed hot and fresh!
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy these Easy Air Fryer Scallops—quick, elegant, and guaranteed to elevate any meal!
