Can bay scallops be used instead of sea scallops?

I prefer sea scallops for this recipe, but if you only have bay scallops, just reduce the air frying time to about 3 minutes. Since bay scallops are much smaller than sea scallops, they will be ready in half the time.

Does the side muscle need to be removed?

The side muscle is edible, but it can get tough when it's cooked, so I recommend removing it from the scallops before cooking. (It can be easily torn off the side of the scallops).

Do scallops need to be rinsed before cooking?

It's not absolutely necessary, but I like to give them a quick rinse under cold water. You'll definitely want to do this if you're using defrosted frozen scallops.

What temperature is best for air frying scallops?

Scallops are usually cooked over high heat, so 400F in the air fryer is the best temperature.

How long does it take to air fry scallops?

Scallops cook quickly, so at 400F, it will only take 5-6 minutes for the scallops to air fry. If you're using bay scallops, they will cook in about 3 minutes. If your scallops are on the larger side, you may need to add another minute or two.

How do you know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops are fully cooked when they look opaque. Unlike pan searing, scallops do not get golden brown in the air fryer. So be careful not to use this as your cue for doneness. The scallops will dry out before they brown in the air fryer.

Can you air fry frozen scallops?

While I'm sure you can, I recommend defrosting frozen scallops in the fridge overnight before seasoning them and air frying.

Air Fryer Scallops

Description

Air Fryer Scallops are tender, succulent and easy to prepare with melted garlic butter, fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice!

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds sea scallops (fresh or frozen and defrosted)
1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons old bay seasoning
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 garlic clove, minced
lemon wedges for serving
chopped fresh parsley to garnish

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Instructions

Place the scallops in a colander and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
Use a knife or your fingers to remove the side muscle on each scallop.
Preheat your air fryer on 400F for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, gently toss the scallops with oil and old bay seasoning.
Carefully arrange the scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them.
Air fry for 3 minutes, flip the scallops over and air fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque.
Repeat with remaining scallops.
While the scallops are air frying, mix together the melted butter and garlic.
Serve the scallops with lemon wedges, melted garlic butter and chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

This recipe was tested in a Cosori 5.8 quart air fryer. If you have a different size, brand or model, you may need to adjust the air frying temperature and time slightly.
Some brands of air fryers call for preheating. I prefer to preheat mine so the scallops hit a hot basket and start cooking right away.
If your air fryer doesn’t have a non-stick basket, you may wish to spray your basket with oil or line it with foil or parchment paper to ensure the scallops don’t stick to the basket.
After you rinse the scallops, make sure they are dried before seasoning them. Excess moisture will affect how well they air fry.
To ensure the scallops cook evenly, you’ll want to air fry them in a single layer and not overcrowd them. This will mean air frying in 2-3 batches.
Be sure to check out the other sections above the recipe card for more detailed advice and suggestions for making this recipe.