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Air Fryer Scallops

Tender and slightly sweet scallops cooked in an air fryer yield a beautifully seared crust with a succulent interior, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound fresh scallops Fresh scallops provide the best flavor and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps with browning and adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds warm, savory notes.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust to enhance flavor.
  • as needed lemon wedges For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
  2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels, then place them in a mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil over the scallops, followed by the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the scallops are evenly coated.
Cooking
  1. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t crowded for optimal crispiness.
  2. Cook for 6-8 minutes, checking for a light golden sear. The scallops should be opaque and firm when done.
  3. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the top.

Notes

For best results, pat scallops dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture. Use uniform-sized scallops and avoid overcrowding them in the air fryer. Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.