Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving more? Look no further than making sea scallops in an air fryer! This quick and easy method is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious seafood dish without the hassle and skill required for traditional cooking methods. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked sea scallops that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all thanks to the wonders of an air fryer.
Are sea scallops good for you?
Sea scallops are delicious and offer a range of health benefits that can contribute to your overall well-being. These succulent shellfish contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. Their high protein and low fat content make them a healthy seafood option, supporting various aspects of your health.
Heart Health
Research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acids found in scallops can play a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including strokes and heart attacks. These fatty acids help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and promote proper heart function, making scallops a heart-healthy choice.
Weight Management
They can aid in weight management. Scallops can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the chances of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods. Their protein content also supports muscle growth and repair, which is essential for physical recovery after exercise or injury.
Other Benefits
Rich in zinc, a crucial mineral in hormone balance. Adequate zinc intake can help regulate hormone production and support various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune system functioning, and growth and development. By incorporating scallops into your diet, you can ensure that you’re getting a good dose of this essential mineral.
How to Cook Sea Scallops in An Air Fryer
Using this quick and easy method, you can serve up restaurant-quality seafood in no time. The most significant aspect is that you do not require any particular culinary skills to obtain flawless outcomes consistently. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying deliciously tender and flavorful sea scallops that are sure to impress you and your friends and family.
First, let’s talk about the air fryer. This countertop appliance has revolutionized how we cook by using hot air circulation to fry food without excessive oil. It creates a crispy and golden exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. And when it comes to making sea scallops, the air fryer truly shines! Using this recipe, you can take out the guesswork from when you use a more traditional method, like cooking with a skillet. When using a skillet, it’s easy to overcook them, making for a rubbery texture.
Now, onto the main ingredient, the sea scallops. A true delicacy is known for its sweet and delicate flavor. Their firm texture makes them perfect for cooking in an air fryer, as they won’t fall apart or become rubbery. It is highly recommended that you use wild-caught sea scallops, not farm-raised ones. Wild-caught scallops are higher in quality and taste.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for the following ingredients per serving. To make multiple servings scale up accordingly.
Scallops
Butter Sauce
Directions
Step 1 – Prepare the scallops
Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is important because it helps the scallops cook more evenly and ensures a nice golden sear on the outside. Once dry, generously season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper (freshly cracked is preferred).
Step 2 – Cook the scallops
Spritz the air fryer basket with extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil). The oil helps reduce sticking. Set the air fryer to 400ยฐF (204ยฐC) for ten minutes. Once the air fryer has reached the target temperature, arrange your seasoned scallops in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they have some space between them to allow for proper airflow. Depending on the number of servings you make, this may require cooking in batches.
Flip the scallops over after five minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 3 – Make the butter sauce
While the scallops are cooking, make the butter sauce. Melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the garlic powder and Italian season mix. You can switch up the spices to add variety, so get creative!
Step 4 – Plate and serve
Remove the scallops from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the butter sauce on top.
Combining the tender, succulent scallops with the crispy, golden crust is irresistible. Your friends and family will be amazed at your culinary skills, and you’ll be thrilled at how easy it was to achieve such delicious results.
Video
Air Fryer Sea Scallops with Butter Sauce
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Saucepan or Skillet
Ingredients
Scallops
- 4 Large Wild Caught Sea Scallops
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil)
- Salt
- Pepper
Butter Sauce
- 1 tbsp Grass-Feed Butter (or Ghee)
- Garlic Powder
- Italian Seasoning Mix
Instructions
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil).
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 ยฐF. Set to cook for 10 minutes.
- Pat the 4 Large Wild Caught Sea Scallops using a paper towel.
- Season the scallops with Salt & Pepper.
- Place the scallops in the heated air fryer leaving space between them.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping them over after 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt 1 tbsp Grass-Feed Butter (or Ghee) in sauce pan or skillet. Once melted, combine with Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning Mix.
- Remove the air fried scallops once done cooking and drizzle the sauce over top to serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information was calculated using a third party plug-in. Be sure to validate values using the labels on the ingredients or other sources.
