Crispy Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Scallops

Scallops are a true delicacy—tender, juicy, and with a sweet, subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with a light seasoning. In this recipe, we’ll take you through the steps to achieve restaurant-quality seared scallops, using your air fryer for that perfect caramelized crust. The air fryer helps lock in the scallops’ natural moisture while creating a golden-brown exterior, making them succulent and flavorful.

Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just craving a quick gourmet dish, this air fryer scallop recipe will be a hit!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large sea scallops, fresh or thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for added color)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for getting a good sear. Wet scallops won’t caramelize properly, so this step ensures the best texture and flavor. If there’s any side muscle (a small tag of tough tissue) on the scallops, gently remove it by pulling it off.

Step 2: Season the Scallops

In a large bowl, toss the dried scallops with olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure the scallops are evenly coated with the seasoning. The olive oil helps the scallops achieve a nice, crispy sear, while the seasonings enhance their natural flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating is important as it helps the scallops cook evenly and ensures a quick sear.

Step 4: Arrange and Cook the Scallops

Carefully arrange the seasoned scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the hot air to circulate around each scallop, promoting even cooking and browning.

Cook the scallops in the preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the scallops over to ensure both sides achieve that beautiful golden sear. The scallops are done when they are firm to the touch and opaque in the center.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Once cooked, remove the scallops from the air fryer and drizzle them with freshly squeezed lemon juice to add a touch of brightness to the dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and an extra layer of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

These air-fried scallops can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer, or you can serve them over a bed of mixed greens, creamy cauliflower mash, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete, low-carb meal. A light garlic butter sauce or a dollop of herbed mayo also pairs wonderfully with the crispy, tender scallops.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 0.5g
  • Protein: 15g

Tips for Success:

  1. Drying the Scallops: Make sure to pat the scallops completely dry before seasoning them. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear and prevents steaming.
  2. Cooking Time: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They should be firm yet slightly springy to the touch when done.
  3. Choosing Scallops: For the best results, use “dry” scallops if you can find them. These are scallops that have not been treated with any preservatives or chemicals, allowing them to sear beautifully without releasing excess water during cooking.
  4. Air Fryer Capacity: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the scallops in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and better browning.

Final Thoughts

These Perfectly Seared Air Fryer Scallops are a testament to how easy it is to make gourmet-level seafood at home. In just minutes, you can enjoy tender, flavorful scallops with a beautifully

crisp exterior—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal. Give this recipe a try and experience how the air fryer elevates the scallop-cooking game!