Name: Perfect Air Fryer Scallops in 10 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 lb Large sea scallops (Pat completely dry with paper towels); To taste Salt & black pepper (For initial seasoning); 1 tsp Bay seasoning (Adds savory complex seafood flavor); 1 Tbsp Vegetable oil (Neutral oil for browning); 3 Tbsp Unsalted butter (Melted); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced finely to infuse butter); 1 tsp Fresh parsley (Finely chopped garnish); From 1 lemon Lemon juice (Brightens sauce at the end)

Description

Juicy sea scallops achieve a golden sear in minutes thanks to the air fryer, then get bathed in a luscious garlic-herb butter. With minimal ingredients and just 12 minutes total time, this elegant appetizer or light entrée is unbelievably quick and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Large sea scallops (Pat completely dry with paper towels)
To taste Salt & black pepper (For initial seasoning)
1 tsp Bay seasoning (Adds savory complex seafood flavor)
1 Tbsp Vegetable oil (Neutral oil for browning)
3 Tbsp Unsalted butter (Melted)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced finely to infuse butter)
1 tsp Fresh parsley (Finely chopped garnish)
From 1 lemon Lemon juice (Brightens sauce at the end)

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Instructions

Prepare the Scallops:

Remove any side-muscle from scallops, rinse under cold water, then pat completely dry with paper towels. A dry surface is essential for searing.

Season and Air Fry:

In a bowl, toss scallops with oil, salt, pepper, and bay seasoning until evenly coated.
Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed).
Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until opaque with a light golden crust.

Make the Garlic Herb Butter:

While scallops cook, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice in a small bowl.

Toss and Serve:

Transfer hot scallops to a clean bowl. Immediately pour garlic herb butter over them and toss gently to coat.
Serve right away for the best texture—scallops will be tender inside with a perfect sear outside.

Notes

Dry Scallops Thoroughly: Any moisture on the surface will steam rather than sear.
Do Not Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
Serve Immediately: The garlic butter coating is best enjoyed right off the air fryer.
Variations: Swap bay seasoning for Old Bay or a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Appetizer, seafood
Cuisine: International, Quick & Easy

Nutrition

Calories: 230