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

Scallops are an expensive seafood option, and cooking them can be intimidating. However, an air fryer can be a great way to cook them to perfection every time. They are also a healthier option, as scallops are packed with protein and have very little fat. They can be seasoned with salt and pepper, brushed with butter, and served with lemon slices. The cooking time is minimal, and the cleanup is easy.

How to prepare scallops for the air fryer

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

Step 1: Choosing the Scallops

Firstly, choose the type of scallops you want to cook. Sea scallops are the larger variety and are commonly used for air frying. Bay scallops are smaller and tend to overcook quickly, so they are not ideal for this cooking method. Fresh scallops are best, but frozen scallops can also be used if thawed and dried before cooking.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step ensures that your scallops cook evenly and efficiently.

Step 3: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as any moisture on the scallops can affect the cooking process and texture. You can also remove the small muscle on the side of the scallop, as it can be a bit tougher than the rest of the scallop. However, this step is optional, and you can choose to leave it on and eat it along with the rest of the scallop.

Step 4: Seasoning

Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra flavour. Brush the scallops with melted butter before cooking to add richness and promote crisping.

Step 5: Cook the Scallops

Place the scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes at 400°F, flipping them halfway through. The scallops are done when they are slightly golden and firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as scallops can become rubbery.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the scallops from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can brush them with additional butter and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

How to make a chive lemon butter sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of freshly chopped chives
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic clove
• 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
• Melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the garlic, lemon zest, and chives to the melted butter. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
• Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Place the scallops in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Remove the scallops from the air fryer and place them on a plate.
• Drizzle the chive lemon butter sauce over the scallops and serve immediately.

This sauce is the perfect complement to your air fryer scallops, adding a tangy and buttery flavour to the dish. Enjoy!

How to cook scallops in the air fryer

Ingredients

• Scallops (fresh or frozen)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Butter
• Olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray
• Lemon

Optional ingredients

• Parsley
• Garlic
• Chives
• Ghee
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Cajun seasoning
• Old Bay seasoning

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
• Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel.
• Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika.
• Place the scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The scallops are done when they are slightly golden and firm to the touch.
• Remove the scallops from the air fryer and brush with melted butter.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips

• If you are using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.
• Make sure to pat the scallops dry before cooking to avoid creating steam in the air fryer.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can affect the cooking time and texture of the scallops.
• Sea scallops are best for air frying, as bay scallops tend to overcook quickly.
• Scallops are cooked when they are opaque and feel firm to the touch. The internal temperature should be 125-130°F.

How to know when scallops are cooked

Scallops are cooked when they are opaque in the centre and golden brown on the outside. They should be firm but buttery, not at all difficult to cut or chew.

Scallops are prone to overcooking, which makes them rubbery and difficult to chew. To avoid this, make sure to pat the scallops dry, do not overcrowd the pan, and cook them for only 2 to 3 minutes per side over high heat.

You can also use an instant-read thermometer to check the doneness of your scallops. The internal temperature should be around 125-130°F.

How to store and reheat scallops

Storing and reheating scallops requires some care to ensure they retain their texture and flavour. Here is a detailed guide on how to store and reheat scallops:

Storing Scallops

Scallops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within two days. To prevent excess moisture, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any liquid. If you need to store them for longer, it is best to freeze them. Place the scallops in a shallow container and store them in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating Scallops in an Air Fryer

The air fryer is an excellent choice for reheating scallops and retaining their crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Place them in the preheated air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. The goal is to reheat them and restore their crispiness without further cooking. Check the doneness of the scallops by using a meat thermometer—they should reach an internal temperature of 125-130°F. Once heated to your desired level, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Other Reheating Methods

Scallops can also be reheated on a stovetop or in a skillet, which is similar to the stovetop method. To do this, heat a skillet or pan over medium-low heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavour. Place the scallops in the pan in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, being careful not to overcook them. You can also reheat scallops using a steamer or a microwave, but these methods require more care to avoid overcooking.

Frequently asked questions