Air-Fryer Scallops: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Yes, you can cook scallops in an air fryer. They are ready in under 10 minutes and are juicy, tender, and flavourful. This quick and easy method delivers perfectly cooked scallops every time.

How long does it take to cook scallops in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook scallops in an air fryer!

To cook scallops in an air fryer, first, pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Then, spritz or brush them with oil or butter and season with salt and pepper or another seasoning of your choice. Place the scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each scallop. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through. The scallops are cooked when they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

The cooking time for scallops in an air fryer will depend on the size of the scallops and the desired level of doneness. Smaller bay scallops will take less time to cook than larger sea scallops, with some recipes recommending 3 minutes for bay scallops and up to 10 minutes for sea scallops. It is important not to overcook scallops, as they can become rubbery. To check if the scallops are cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 120°F to 130°F.

Additionally, if you are cooking frozen scallops, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. It is recommended to thaw frozen scallops before cooking and to ensure they are completely dry before placing them in the air fryer.

What's the best way to reheat scallops?

Reheating scallops while maintaining their tender, succulent texture can be challenging. However, with the right techniques, you can enjoy their exquisite taste and delicate texture for a second time. Here is a guide to help you choose the best method for reheating scallops to perfection.

Reheating Scallops in an Air Fryer:

The air fryer is an excellent choice for reheating scallops and retaining their crispy texture. Here's what you need to do:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
• While preheating, arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Place the scallops in the preheated air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Check the scallops for doneness. They should be heated through and have regained their original crispiness.
• If needed, cook for an additional minute, but be cautious not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery.
• Once heated to your liking, remove the scallops from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Reheating Scallops on the Stove:

The stovetop method is a classic way to reheat scallops while maintaining their tenderness. Here's how:

• Heat a skillet or pan over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the delicate scallops.
• Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet to prevent sticking and enhance flavour.
• Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the scallops in a single layer to ensure even heating.
• Cook the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, using a spatula to turn them gently.
• Check for doneness by cutting into one of the scallops. It should be heated through with no cold centre.
• Once heated, remove the scallops from the pan immediately to prevent further cooking and serve with your favourite sides or sauces.

Reheating Scallops Using the Steam Method:

The steam method is a gentle way to reheat scallops without compromising their texture and flavour. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare a steamer by filling a saucepan with about an inch of water and placing a steamer basket or heatproof colander on top. Ensure the water level is below the basket.
• Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the steamer basket. You may need to do this in batches for even heating.
• Cover the saucepan with a lid or foil to trap the steam and steam the scallops for about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops. They should reach 125-130°F (52-54°C).
• Once heated through, remove the scallops from the steamer and serve immediately, being cautious of the hot steam.

Reheating Scallops in the Microwave:

The microwave method is quick and convenient but requires careful attention to avoid overcooking. Here's how to do it right:

• Arrange the scallops in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer. You may need to work in batches for even heating.
• Cover the scallops with a damp (not soaking wet) paper towel to create a steamy environment and keep them moist during reheating.
• Set your microwave to low power (10-30% power) to ensure a slower, more even reheating process.
• Reheat in short intervals of 20-30 seconds, checking the temperature and texture after each interval. This may require several cycles.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 125-130°F (52-54°C). Avoid overcooking to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.
• Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the scallops from the microwave and serve immediately, being cautious of the hot dish.

What can you serve with air-fried scallops?

Air-fried scallops can be served with a variety of dishes, depending on your preference and the type of meal you are preparing. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air-fried scallops:

• Creamy coleslaw and tartar sauce
• Pea puree with garlic
• Crispy bacon pieces and potatoes (e.g., roasted potato cubes with rosemary)
• Asian-inspired dishes like rice or noodles with teriyaki sauce
• Creamy pasta with seafood, shallots, garlic, wine, cream, and peas
• Lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or chipotle seasoning
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Cajun corn on the cob
• Air fryer hush puppies
• Air fryer green beans
• Air fryer bacon-wrapped scallops
• Air fryer salmon
• Air fryer shrimp
• Air fryer cod

How do you prepare scallops for the air fryer?

Preparing scallops in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook this seafood. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and cook scallops in an air fryer:

Step 1: Choosing the Scallops

Firstly, you will need to select your scallops. Look for scallops that are bright white and tender. Avoid any that are slimy or discoloured. Scallops come in different sizes, with sea scallops being larger and bay scallops smaller. You can also buy scallops that are still in their shell, but cooking them without the shell is recommended for the best results.

Step 2: Seasoning

Before cooking, you should pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is important as any remaining moisture will create steam in the air fryer, making the scallops soft instead of crispy. You can then season the scallops with salt and pepper, and brush them with butter. You can also add other seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for extra flavour.

Step 3: Air Frying

Generously grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Then, place a single layer of scallops in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Set the air fryer to 200C/400F and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through. For smaller bay scallops, reduce the cooking time to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Serving

Once the scallops are golden brown and slightly firm, they are ready to be served. You can brush them with additional butter and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or other herbs. Scallops go well with lemon, so consider serving them with lemon slices or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

What type of scallops should you use?

When it comes to choosing scallops for your air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to know that there are different types of scallops available, and the type you choose will depend on your preference and the specific recipe you're following. The two main types of scallops are bay scallops and sea scallops.

Bay scallops are smaller, usually found in shallow waters and bays along the East Coast. They typically measure around 1/2 inch in diameter. Sea scallops, on the other hand, are larger and can be found in deep, cold ocean waters worldwide, with some as big as 2 inches in diameter. For air-frying, sea scallops are generally recommended as they make for a more substantial dish and are less likely to overcook quickly.

When shopping for scallops, look for ones that are bright, white, and tender. Avoid any that appear slimy or discoloured. Fresh scallops should have a nice sheen to them, and they should be firm to the touch, not mushy. If you're using frozen scallops, make sure to thaw them before cooking, either by leaving them in the refrigerator or placing them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.

Additionally, you may want to remove the side muscle from the scallops, as it can be a little tough. Simply pinch and gently tug on the muscle to remove it. Before cooking, always pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will help ensure they cook properly and don't become rubbery.

Finally, when seasoning your scallops, keep in mind that a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper can go a long way. However, you can also experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and spices to add extra flavour to your dish. Some popular choices include garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper for a kick of heat, or lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty touch.

Frequently asked questions