Air-Fryer Scallops: Perfect Timing For Tender, Juicy Bites

Air fryer scallops are a quick and easy dish to make, with most recipes taking under 10 minutes to cook. The cooking time will depend on the type of scallop used, with bay scallops taking less time than sea scallops. Before cooking, scallops should be patted dry and seasoned with salt and pepper, and the air fryer should be preheated to around 400°F. Scallops are cooked when they are opaque all the way through and have an internal temperature of 120-130°F.

How to prepare scallops for the air fryer

Preparing scallops for the air fryer is simple and quick. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Scallops

Select fresh, bright white sea scallops that are tender to the touch. Avoid slimy or discoloured scallops. If using bay scallops, keep in mind that they are smaller and will require a shorter cooking time.

Step 2: Remove the Side Muscle

Locate the side muscle, a tough, chewy piece of fibrous tissue on one side of the scallop. Pinch it between your thumb and forefinger, then gently tug until it pulls away and discard it.

Step 3: Pat the Scallops Dry

Use a paper towel to pat each scallop dry and 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.

Step 4: Season the Scallops

You can season the scallops simply with salt and pepper, or get creative with additional seasonings. Try lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, chipotle seasoning, paprika, or garlic powder. You can also brush the scallops with melted butter before cooking for added richness.

Step 5: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Place the Scallops in the Air Fryer

Ensure there is space between each scallop in the basket, as overcrowding can affect the cooking time and texture. A single layer of scallops is best.

Step 7: Air Fry the Scallops

Cook the scallops for 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the scallops. For sea scallops, aim for 6-8 minutes, and for bay scallops, reduce the time to 3 minutes.

Step 8: Check for Doneness

The scallops are cooked when they are slightly golden and firm to the touch. You can also use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 120°F-130°F when done.

Step 9: Serve

Remove the scallops from the air fryer and brush them with additional butter if desired. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices. Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer scallops!

Air fryer temperature and cooking time

The air fryer temperature and cooking time for scallops vary depending on the type of scallop and the desired level of doneness. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve perfectly cooked scallops every time:

Air fryer temperature

Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). However, one recipe suggests a lower temperature of 390°F (198°C).

Cooking time for sea scallops

For sea scallops, the cooking time ranges from 5 to 10 minutes. It's important to note that sea scallops are larger and take longer to cook than bay scallops. Here are some specific timings:

• One recipe suggests cooking sea scallops for 8 to 10 minutes, until the outside and edges start to turn a light golden brown and the scallops are cooked through.
• Another recipe recommends cooking for 6 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through.
• A third recipe also suggests a cooking time of 5 to 7 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through.

Cooking time for bay scallops

Bay scallops are smaller and require less cooking time. Here are some specific timings:

• One recipe recommends cooking bay scallops for 3 minutes instead of the 6 minutes suggested for sea scallops.
• Another recipe suggests cooking frozen scallops for 3 minutes longer than fresh scallops or thawing them completely to cook for the usual time.

Factors affecting cooking time

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the scallops and the desired level of doneness. Here are some additional factors to consider:

• One recipe mentions that the cooking time for scallops in the air fryer depends on their thickness, with an estimated cooking time of about 6 minutes to reach an internal temperature of 120°F.
• Another recipe emphasizes the importance of not overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can affect the cooking time and texture of the scallops.
• It's also important to pat the scallops dry before cooking, as any moisture can create steam and affect the cooking process.

Checking for doneness

To check if your scallops are cooked, look for the following signs:

• The scallops should have an internal temperature of 120°F to 130°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to check.
• The scallops should be opaque throughout and feel firm to the touch.
• The scallops may not brown in the air fryer, so don't rely on colour as an indicator of doneness.

How to know when scallops are cooked

Scallops are a tricky food to cook, as they can be undercooked or overcooked very easily. There are several ways to know when scallops are cooked just right.

Firstly, scallops should be opaque in the centre and golden brown on the outside. They should not be milky white, as this is a sign that they are undercooked. The edges of the scallops should also be slightly breaking apart when they are cooked.

Secondly, the texture of the scallops is a good indicator of whether they are cooked or not. Scallops should be firm but buttery, and easy to cut through. They should not be rubbery or difficult to chew, as this means they are overcooked. If you are cooking the scallops in a pan, they should release easily when you go to flip them.

Thirdly, you can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the scallops. The temperature should be between 115°F and 130°F.

Finally, if you are cooking the scallops in an air fryer, they will take around 5-7 minutes to cook, depending on their size. If you are cooking them in a pan, they will take around 4-6 minutes in total.

Storing and reheating scallops

Storing scallops correctly is essential to maintaining their freshness and quality. If you plan to use fresh scallops within a day or two, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically around 32-36°F (0-2°C). Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container or bag to absorb excess moisture.

It is best not to freeze fresh scallops unless you intend to refreeze leftovers. However, if you do choose to freeze them, store them in a freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or lower, ensuring the packaging is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss. Label your containers or bags with the date of purchase or freezing to keep track of freshness, and aim to use frozen scallops within 3-6 months.

When you're ready to use frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to preserve their texture and flavour.

Now, let's talk about reheating scallops. The key to maintaining their tender, succulent texture and delicate flavour is to use gentle heat. Here are some methods you can use:

Reheating Scallops in an Air Fryer:

• 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 the scallops in the preheated air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Check for doneness. The scallops should be heated through and may have regained some crispiness.
• If necessary, cook for an additional minute, but be cautious not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery.
• Serve immediately with your favourite sauces or side dishes.

Reheating Scallops on the Stove:

• 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.
• Remove the scallops from the pan immediately to prevent further cooking and serve with your chosen sides or sauces.

Reheating Scallops in a Microwave:

• Arrange the scallops in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer.
• Cover them with a damp (not soaking wet) paper towel to create a steamy environment and prevent drying out.
• 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 of the scallops after each interval.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 125-130°F (52-54°C).
• Serve immediately, being cautious when handling the dish as it will be hot.

Reheating Breaded Scallops in an Air Fryer:

• Spray the scallops with oil and place them in a preheated air fryer at 350°F.
• Cook for a few minutes to check the internal temperature.
• If they are not warm enough, cook for one-minute intervals, checking the temperature each time.

Remember, moisture is key to keeping scallops from drying out during reheating. Enjoy your perfectly reheated scallops!

What to serve with air fryer scallops

Air fryer scallops can be served with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Here are some ideas to complement your juicy, tender scallops:

Side Dishes

• Rice: Drizzle the extra butter sauce from the scallops over the rice for a cohesive dish.
• Green beans: These can also be cooked in the air fryer and drizzled with the butter sauce.
• Roasted potatoes and asparagus: Another vegetable option to pair with your scallops.
• Mashed purple sweet potatoes: For a colourful and tasty side dish.
• Air fryer frozen broccoli: Keep things simple by cooking this side dish in the air fryer as well.
• Air fryer carrots: Another easy option to prepare in the air fryer alongside your scallops.
• Creamy coleslaw: A refreshing side dish to balance out the richness of the scallops.

Sauces

• Lemon-herb sauce: A zesty and bright sauce to complement the scallops.
• Tartar sauce: A classic choice for seafood, adding a tangy and creamy dimension to the dish.
• Chive, garlic, and lemon butter sauce: A restaurant-quality sauce that is simple to make at home and pairs well with scallops.
• Garlic butter: Whisk together minced garlic and butter for a flavourful dipping sauce.

Frequently asked questions