Air-Fryer Scallops: Frozen To Crispy In Minutes

Yes, you can cook frozen scallops in an air fryer. They can be cooked from frozen, but you may need to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time. Frozen scallops are best thawed in the refrigerator overnight, but if you're in a hurry, you can place them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes. Before cooking, pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which is key to achieving a beautiful golden crust. Then, brush with butter or oil, season, and cook for 5-12 minutes, depending on the size of your scallops.

How to prepare frozen scallops for the air fryer

Step 1: Defrosting

Frozen scallops should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before air frying. If you're in a hurry, place the frozen scallops in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Drying

Once thawed, pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This is a crucial step to achieving a beautiful golden crust and preventing the scallops from becoming rubbery.

Step 3: Seasoning

Drizzle the scallops with olive oil or melted butter, and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

Step 4: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the seasoned scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the scallops are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 5: Serving

Scallops are best served immediately while they are still hot. You can serve them with a simple butter sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite sides like rice, green beans, or roasted potatoes.

Cooking times and temperatures

When cooking frozen scallops in an air fryer, it is important to note that they will require a slightly longer cooking time than fresh scallops. Frozen scallops should be cooked for about 6-12 minutes, depending on their size, while fresh scallops typically take 5-8 minutes.

The air fryer temperature should be set within the range of 390-400°F (200-205°C). At this temperature, the scallops will cook through while achieving a slightly golden, seared exterior.

It is recommended to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and to help achieve the desired colour and texture. Preheat the air fryer for 2-5 minutes or as recommended by the manufacturer's instructions.

To check if the scallops are done, look for a slight caramelisation on the outside and an opaque appearance. The ideal internal temperature for scallops is 115-130°F (46-54°C). Overcooking the scallops should be avoided as this can result in a rubbery texture.

Additionally, it is important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Arrange the scallops in a single layer to ensure even cooking and the desired crispy texture.

What to serve with air-fried scallops

Now that you know you can cook frozen scallops in an air fryer, you might be wondering what to serve with them. Here are some ideas for side dishes and flavors that will complement your air-fried scallops:

• Lemon and Parsley: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a lemon slice on the side is a classic pairing with scallops. You can also sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch.
• Salads: A simple green salad or a more complex salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and a tangy vinaigrette can be a refreshing companion to your scallops.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a healthy and flavorful side dish. You can even wrap asparagus spears in bacon for an extra indulgent treat.
• Starchy Sides: Creamy polenta, roasted potatoes, or rice (white or cauliflower) can provide a comforting base for your scallops.
• Pasta: Toss your air-fried scallops with cooked pasta, a splash of white wine, and some Parmesan cheese for a light and satisfying meal.
• Grain Bowls: Serve your scallops on a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice, along with some fresh vegetables, for a nutritious and well-rounded dish.
• Creamy Coleslaw: The crispness and creaminess of coleslaw can balance out the delicate flavor of the scallops.
• Tartar Sauce: A tangy tartar sauce can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the scallops.
• Pea Puree: A bright and flavorful pea puree can be a lovely accompaniment to your scallops, especially when paired with crispy bacon pieces.
• Asian-inspired Dishes: Scallops go well with Asian flavors like teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Try serving them with rice or noodles cooked in this style.
• Seafood Pasta: Create a creamy pasta dish with a mix of seafood, including scallops, prawns, and salmon. Sauté some shallots and garlic, add wine and cream, then stir in your cooked pasta and seafood.

How to store and reheat leftovers

To store scallops, place them in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will last for 2 to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked scallops for up to 3 months. However, refreezing the cooked scallops is not recommended.

When reheating scallops, it is important to note that they won't be as great as freshly cooked. The best method is to use gentle heat to warm them without compromising their tenderness. Here are some options for reheating:

• Steam: Place a steamer basket over a saucepan with a little water on the stove. Warm the scallops for a few minutes until they are heated through. You can also add vegetables like peas, spinach, green beans, or asparagus to steam along with the scallops. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs.
• Microwave: Place the scallops in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap. Use a lower power level and brief time intervals to avoid overcooking. Heat in 10-15 second increments until warmed.
• Stovetop: Place the scallops in a non-stick pan on low to medium-low heat. Cover the pan and steam for 2-3 minutes on each side until the scallops reach the desired internal temperature.
• Oven: Preheat the oven to 275°F. Place the scallops in an oven-proof dish and add a splash of water or pan juices. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally, until heated through.
• Air fryer: While this method can work for breaded scallops, it is not recommended for plain scallops as it can dry them out. If reheating breaded scallops, spray them with oil and place them in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed.

The best type of scallops for the air fryer

When choosing scallops for the air fryer, it is best to opt for sea scallops, which are larger and cook more evenly than bay scallops. Sea scallops are also sweeter and juicier, making them perfect for air frying. When selecting sea scallops, look for ones that are bright white and tender to the touch. Avoid any that appear slimy or discoloured.

Fresh scallops should be translucent and dry, not slimy or dull. Try to find dry-packed scallops, which will give you the best flavour and texture. Dry scallops should be uniform in colour and moist but not soaking wet. If they are labelled as wet scallops, this means they have been placed in a solution as a preservative, and these are best avoided as they can have an inferior taste and texture.

Frozen scallops can be used in an air fryer, but they should be thoroughly thawed in the refrigerator first. You can also buy fresh scallops and freeze them yourself, for when you need them.

When preparing scallops for the air fryer, it is important to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, as this will help to achieve a beautiful golden crust.

Frequently asked questions