Air-Frying Scallops: Quick, Easy, And Delicious?

Yes, you can cook scallops in an air fryer! They are said to turn out perfectly in just minutes with a slightly seared exterior and tender bite. They are also super easy to make and can be served as a main with pasta or rice and vegetables, or as a fancy starter or canape.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time for scallops in an air fryer depends on the size of the scallops and the desired level of doneness.

For large scallops, such as king scallops or sea scallops, it is recommended to cook them in the air fryer for around 6 to 10 minutes. Smaller scallops, such as bay scallops or queen scallops, will need a shorter cooking time of around 5 to 7 minutes. It's important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the power and model of your air fryer, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye on the scallops while they're cooking to avoid overcooking.

When cooking scallops in an air fryer, it is essential to preheat the air fryer to 390–400°F (198–204°C) before adding the scallops. This ensures that the scallops cook evenly and efficiently. Once the air fryer has preheated, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or grease it generously to prevent the scallops from sticking.

The ideal cooking temperature for scallops in an air fryer is between 125–145°F (52–63°C). To check the doneness of the scallops, you can use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they have reached the desired internal temperature. Properly cooked scallops will have an opaque appearance and a tender texture. They should be slightly golden and firm to the touch.

It is worth noting that air-fried scallops will not have the same deep golden crust as pan-fried scallops. However, this does not affect their taste or texture, and they will still be perfectly cooked. Additionally, if you are using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, and add 3 minutes to the cooking time or cook them completely before air-frying.

Seasoning and sauces

Seasoning Scallops

Before cooking scallops in an air fryer, it is important to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial as any remaining liquid can create steam in the air fryer, resulting in soft instead of crispy scallops. After patting them dry, you can season the scallops generously. A simple seasoning combination is salt and pepper, but you can also add other spices like paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a spicy and smoky kick. Paprika, in particular, adds a nice colour to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of pepper, such as salt-free lemon pepper seasoning or Cajun seasoning.

Sauces to Accompany Scallops

Scallops pair well with various sauces, and you can choose from a range of options to suit your taste preferences. A classic choice is to serve them with creamy tartar sauce or garlic herb butter. To make garlic herb butter, melt butter and add minced garlic and parsley, then stir. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to this sauce for added freshness. Alternatively, you can brush the scallops with butter and sprinkle them with finely chopped parsley, serving them with sliced lemon on the side.

Marinades for Added Flavour

If you want to add even more flavour to your scallops, you can try marinating them before cooking. Some sauce options for marinating include eel sauce or bulgogi sauce. Additionally, creating a garlic butter marinade can be as simple as whisking minced garlic into the butter.

Frozen scallops

To cook frozen scallops in an air fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, pat the frozen scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which is key to getting a beautiful sear. Next, season the scallops with salt, pepper, and lemon pepper or paprika for a flavor boost and a colour boost. You can also try variations with different sauces, spices, or dressings.

After seasoning, drizzle the scallops with oil to help with browning and locking in moisture. Then, generously grease an air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the scallops in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, which can affect the cooking time and texture. Make sure to leave space between each scallop to ensure the hot air can circulate and cook each one properly.

Finally, air fry the scallops at 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The scallops are cooked when they are slightly golden and firm to the touch. For an extra flavour boost, brush the scallops with butter after removing them from the air fryer and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley. Serve with a slice of lemon and enjoy!

Serving suggestions

Scallops cooked in an air fryer can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions:

As a Starter or Canapé

Scallops are great for canapes or fancy starters. They can be served hot or cold, and you can add some variety by mixing them with other seafood like salmon or king prawns.

With a Light Side Dish

Scallops are best served with a light and refreshing side dish to avoid overpowering their natural flavour. Some good options include a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. They also go well with pasta, especially a creamy seafood pasta. If you want to add some crunch to your scallops, serve them with some crispy bacon pieces.

With a Dipping Sauce

You can serve air-fried scallops with your favourite dipping sauce. They go especially well with a homemade Chipotle sauce or a garlic herb butter.

As a Main Course

For a heartier meal, serve your scallops with a complementary main dish like pasta, risotto, or rice. You can also add some extra protein by wrapping them in bacon.

Reheating and Storing

Leftover scallops can be stored in a shallow container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They can also be frozen for up to two months and reheated in the air fryer or microwave until warm.

Health benefits

Scallops are a healthy food option, and cooking them in an air fryer is a great way to retain their nutritional value.

Firstly, scallops are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, which are known to boost brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. They are also high in vitamin B12 and iron, making them a nutritious choice.

Secondly, air fryers are an ideal way to cook scallops as they require minimal oil, reducing the overall calorie count of the dish. The hot air in the fryer circulates around the food, creating a crispy exterior without the need for excessive amounts of oil or butter. This cooking method also helps retain the natural flavour and moisture of the scallops, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.

Additionally, air-fried scallops are a quick and easy option for a gourmet meal. They can be cooked in under 10 minutes, making them a convenient choice for a delicious and healthy meal.

Finally, the versatility of scallops makes them an excellent choice for various dishes. They can be served as an appetizer, lunch, dinner, or even a snack. They pair well with salads, pastas, or simply enjoyed on their own with dipping sauces.

Preparing scallops in an air fryer is not only a healthy option but also a convenient and tasty one, allowing you to enjoy the natural sweetness and delicate flavour of scallops without the mess and grease of traditional frying methods.

Frequently asked questions