Air-Fried Scallops: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

If you're looking for a quick, easy, and impressive meal, look no further than air fryer scallops. This simple method delivers perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender scallops with a slightly seared exterior in just a few minutes. The air fryer's short cook time and even circulation of hot air make it ideal for preparing scallops with minimal mess and grease. By following a few key steps and tips, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that's sure to impress.

How to Cook Scallops in an Air Fryer

How to season scallops for the air fryer

Preparing scallops in an air fryer is a quick and easy process. Before cooking, it is important to pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This is because scallops that are too wet will create steam in the air fryer, making them soft instead of crispy. The scallops should also be seasoned generously on both sides.

There are many ways to season scallops for the air fryer. The simplest option is to season them with salt and pepper. You can also brush the scallops with butter before cooking and sprinkle them with finely chopped parsley after cooking. Other simple seasonings include olive oil, lemon pepper, paprika, and bay seasoning.

For a more complex flavour, you can coat the scallops with breadcrumbs. You can use Italian breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Alternatively, you can make a lemon butter sauce to coat the scallops with using lemon juice, lemon zest, oil, and garlic. Scallops can also be served with a pea puree, crispy bacon pieces, and potatoes, or with a creamy pasta dish with a mix of seafood.

How to arrange scallops in the air fryer

To arrange scallops in an air fryer, start by patting them dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the butter and seasonings stick better. Next, season the scallops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as paprika, lemon pepper, or bay seasoning.

Brush the scallops with butter before placing them in the air fryer. When arranging the scallops in the air fryer basket or tray, place them in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. Leave some space between each scallop to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking. If you have a large number of scallops and they don't all fit in a single layer, work in batches.

For basket-type air fryers, you can raise the cooking grid to be nearer the top to maximise the amount of colour the scallops will get. For other types of air fryers, choose the option nearest the element, such as the top shelf, to achieve similar results.

How long to cook scallops in the air fryer

The cooking time for scallops in an air fryer varies depending on the size of the scallops, whether they are frozen, and the desired level of doneness.

For fresh, unfrozen sea scallops, cook for around 5 minutes at 390 degrees F. For frozen scallops, cook for around 7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If you prefer your scallops more well-done, you can add an extra minute to the cooking time.

Some recipes suggest cooking scallops for 6 minutes at 400 degrees F, flipping them after 3 minutes. Others recommend cooking for 8-10 minutes at the same temperature.

It is important to note that smaller bay scallops can cook much faster and may become rubbery if overcooked, so it is crucial to keep a close eye on them.

To ensure even cooking and a crispy coating, arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each scallop.

How to store leftover scallops

Storing leftover scallops properly is crucial to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here are some tips on how to store leftover scallops:

Storing Cooked Scallops

If you have cooked scallops, it is important to store them in the fridge within two hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth. Place them in a shallow airtight container or wrap them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When stored correctly, they can last in the fridge for up to three to four days.

Storing Fresh Scallops

If you have fresh scallops that you don't plan to cook within two days, it is best to freeze them. Before freezing, clean the scallops thoroughly and pat them dry. Then, place them in a plastic container or bag and freeze them. They will keep for up to three months.

Reheating Scallops

When reheating scallops, ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F to kill any potential bacteria. Use gentle heating methods like steaming or microwaving at a lower power to avoid drying them out.

Creative Reuse

Leftover scallops can be incorporated into new dishes. For example, you can add them to omelets or salads, or make a scallop spread by mixing them with cream cheese and herbs.

Signs of Spoilage

Be aware of the signs of spoilage, such as an off-odor, sliminess, or discoloration. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the scallops.

What to serve with air-fried scallops

Air-fried scallops can be served with a variety of dishes and sides. Here are some ideas to complement the seafood dish:

Main Dishes

• Pasta
• Risotto
• Rice

Salads

A salad can be a great light option to pair with your air-fried scallops. Scallops can be served on top of a bed of greens, with some sliced potatoes, or even as part of a potato salad.

Vegetables

Some vegetable side dishes that go well with scallops include:

• Asparagus
• Carrots
• Baked sweet potato

Pea Puree and Bacon

For a more indulgent option, serve your scallops with a pea puree, crispy bacon pieces, and potatoes.

Breads

Scallops can be served with various types of bread, such as toasted bread or bread rolls.

Sauces

To add extra flavour to your meal, consider serving your scallops with a sauce. A lemon butter sauce, made with lemon juice, lemon zest, oil, and garlic, can be a great option to complement the seafood.

Shells

If you're feeling creative, you can even serve your scallops in cleaned scallop shells! This unique presentation idea adds a bit of theatre to your dining experience.

Frequently asked questions