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Lemon Butter Scallops in the Air Fryer: A Delightful Dish

If you’re looking to impress your guests with an elegant yet simple dish, look no further than Lemon Butter Scallops made in the air fryer. Scallops are a delicacy known for their delicate flavour and tender texture, and when paired with a zesty lemon butter sauce, they become an irresistible culinary experience. Using an air fryer not only yields perfectly cooked scallops but also reduces the fuss, making this dish accessible for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike.

Ingredients

To prepare Lemon Butter Scallops in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g fresh scallops (ideally dry-packed)
• 50g unsalted butter, melted
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick

Preparing the Scallops

1. Thaw and Dry: If using frozen scallops, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture, as this will help achieve a lovely sear.

2. Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper (and cayenne if you’re using it). Add the scallops to this mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavours.

Air Frying the Scallops

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

2. Arrange the Scallops: Lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Carefully place the marinated scallops in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. This helps them cook evenly.

3. Cooking Time: Cook the scallops for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they are opaque and have a golden-brown exterior. The precise cooking time may vary depending on the size of the scallops and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, remove the scallops from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Lemon Butter Scallops can be served as a starter or as a main course alongside accompaniments such as creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted seasonal vegetables. A glass of crisp white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the lemony notes and complementing the sweetness of the scallops.

Tips for the Perfect Scallops

• Choose Quality Scallops: For the best results, opt for dry-packed scallops over wet ones, as they hold flavour better during cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If you have a larger batch, it’s wise to cook in batches rather than overcrowding the air fryer basket, ensuring even cooking and optimal texture.
• Taste Test: Adjust the amount of lemon, garlic, and seasoning to suit your personal palate.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Scallops in the air fryer is a quick, hassle-free way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. With minimal preparation and culinary skill, you can whip up this delightful dish that offers a bright burst of flavour with each bite. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these scallops are sure to please. Give this recipe a try, and experience the magic of air-fried scallops that taste divine!

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