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Air Fryer Frozen Scallops

Name: Air Fryer Frozen Scallops
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Scallops (Frozen ); 1 teaspoon Olive Oil; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Pepper; 1 Lemon Wedges (optional)

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Air Fryer Frozen Scallops — Savor the taste of the sea without the fuss! In just a few minutes, you can enjoy succulent and perfectly cooked air fryer frozen scallops that are as good as freshly caught.

Dive into this quick and convenient seafood delight.

Can you cook frozen scallops in air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen scallops in an air fryer. The air fryer’s high-speed hot air circulation makes it a convenient and efficient way to perfectly prepare frozen scallops. It’s a quick and hassle-free method to enjoy this delectable seafood.

Why cook frozen scallops in air fryer?

Cooking frozen scallops in an air fryer offers several advantages:

Quick and Convenient: Air fryers cook frozen scallops much faster than traditional methods, making it a time-saving option for busy individuals.
Crispy Texture: The hot air circulation in an air fryer produces a crisp exterior while keeping the interior tender and moist, enhancing the texture of the scallops.
No Need for Thawing: You can cook frozen scallops directly from the freezer without the need for time-consuming thawing, making it a convenient option for impromptu meals.
Minimal Oil: Air frying requires minimal oil compared to pan-frying or deep-frying, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Even Cooking: The even heat distribution in an air fryer ensures that all sides of the scallops are cooked uniformly.

Overall, air-frying frozen scallops is a convenient, efficient, and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy without the hassle of thawing or extensive cooking times.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Frozen Scallops

Preparing air fryer frozen scallops is a breeze with just a few simple ingredients. These succulent morsels of seafood are perfect for a quick and delicious meal you can enjoy in no time.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredients list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Frozen Scallops: The star of the show, frozen scallops, are a convenient choice for this recipe. They offer a delicate and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with air frying.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture when air frying.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: A pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper provide seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the scallops.
Lemon Wedges (Optional): For a zesty and refreshing touch, serve your air-fried scallops with lemon wedges. Squeezing lemon juice over the scallops just before serving adds citrusy brightness.

These simple ingredients combine to create a delightful seafood dish that’s quick, easy, and flavorful.

How To Cook Frozen Scallops In Air Fryer

Cooking frozen scallops in the air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this seafood delicacy with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes. This ensures that the scallops cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Prepare the Scallops: While the air fryer is heating up, pat the frozen scallops dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent that perfect crispiness.

Season the Scallops: Drizzle them with olive oil and season them with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss them gently to ensure even coating.

Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.

Air Fry: Cook the scallops in the preheated air fryer for 5-8 minutes, depending on their size and your desired level of doneness. Flip the scallops halfway through the cooking time to ensure uniform cooking and a golden brown exterior.

Check for Doneness: Scallops are done when they turn opaque and slightly caramelized on the outside. Be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become tough. The internal temperature of the tender scallops should reach 120 degrees F by inserting a meat thermometer.

Serve: Once your air-fried scallops are cooked to perfection, plate them up. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice or garlic butter right before serving.

These air-fried scallops make for a delectable appetizer or main course. Enjoy their delicate sweetness and crispy texture without the hassle of thawing.

Pro Tips For Cooking Frozen Scallops In Air Fryer

Here are some pro tips to ensure your frozen scallops turn out perfectly when cooked in the air fryer:

Thaw Slightly (Optional): While you can cook frozen scallops directly, thawing them slightly in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours can help them cook more evenly and achieve a better sear.
Dry Thoroughly: Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. Moisture on the scallops can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Use High Heat: Preheat your air fryer to a high temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) to create a hot cooking environment. This will give your scallops a nice sear on the outside.
Space Them Out: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy texture.
Season Well: To enhance the scallops’ flavor, season them with your favorite spices, herbs, or marinades. Lemon zest, garlic, and a dash of paprika work well.
Flip Halfway Through: Flip the scallops halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. This helps both sides develop a beautiful sear.
Monitor Closely: Scallops cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. The exact cooking time can vary based on scallop size and air fryer model.
Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed after cooking to savor their delicate texture and flavor. They can become rubbery if left to cool for too long.

By following these pro tips, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results when cooking frozen scallops in your air fryer.

Best Ways To Season Frozen Scallops

Seasoning frozen scallops can enhance their flavor and add a delicious touch to your dish.

Seasoning scallops enhances their flavor and elevates your dish. For a delicious seasoning, consider combining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper, cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley.

This mix provides a delightful balance of citrusy, savory, smoky, and peppery notes, enhancing scallops’ natural sweetness. You can also customize your seasoning with herbs like thyme or rosemary or add a touch of chili powder for heat. Experiment to find your perfect blend, always keeping the delicate scallop flavor in mind.

FAQ’s About Cooking Frozen Scallops In Air Fryer

Can I cook scallops directly from frozen in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen scallops directly in the air fryer. However, thawing them slightly in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before cooking is recommended for better results.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for frozen scallops?

Preheat your air fryer to a high temperature, usually around 400°F (200°C). The high heat helps create a nice sear on the scallops.

Do I need to flip the scallops during cooking?

Yes, it’s a good idea to flip the scallops halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and searing on both sides.

How long do I air fry frozen scallops?

The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the scallops and your specific air fryer model. Frozen scallops Typically take about 8-10 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Can I season frozen scallops before cooking?

Absolutely! Season your frozen scallops with your favorite herbs, spices, or marinades to enhance their flavor. Typical seasonings include lemon zest, garlic, paprika, and herbs like parsley or thyme.

Can I cook breaded or battered frozen scallops in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook breaded or battered frozen scallops in an air fryer. Follow the package instructions for the best results, but generally, they should be cooked at a similar high temperature, and flipping them halfway through is still a good idea.

What should I serve with air-fried frozen scallops?

Air-fried scallops pair well with various side dishes. Try side dishes such as steamed vegetables, green beans, rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal and quick dinner. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like tartar sauce or a lemon-garlic aioli.

Can I store and reheat leftover air-fried scallops?

Yes, you can store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 350°F or 180°C) for a few minutes until they’re warmed through.

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