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Air Fryer Scallops in Garlic Butter Sauce

Scallops are a true delicacy, and cooking them can seem intimidating. However, the air fryer makes this delightful seafood accessible to home cooks. Scallops cooked in garlic butter sauce are a sumptuous treat, offering a harmonious blend of buttery richness and garlicky zest. Here’s how to prepare Air Fryer Scallops in Garlic Butter Sauce that are sure to impress at any dinner party or a cosy night in.

Ingredients

• 450g scallops (preferably large, dry-packed scallops)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Small mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Cooking spray or oil mister

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Start by rinsing the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. It’s essential to ensure they are completely dry to achieve a lovely sear. If your scallops have any side muscle (a small, tough piece), make sure to remove it.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove until it’s fully liquefied but not boiling. Mix well to integrate the garlic and lemon juice into the butter.

Step 3: Season the Scallops

Lightly season the scallops with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning enhances their natural flavours without overpowering them.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the scallops start cooking immediately upon being placed in the basket, which aids in achieving that desirable sear.

Step 5: Cook the Scallops

Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned scallops in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This will allow for even cooking.

Brush half of the garlic butter sauce over the scallops before cooking. Air fry for approximately 6-8 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through the cooking time. The scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when cooked. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.

Step 6: Add the Sauce

Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the scallops to a serving platter and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or chives for an extra touch of colour. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing.

Tips for Perfect Scallops

1. Choose the Right Scallops: Dry-packed scallops are the best choice as they retain less water and result in a better sear compared to wet scallops.

2. Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than searing, which affects the texture.

3. Monitor Cook Time: Every air fryer is different, so adjust the cooking time based on your specific model and size of scallops.

4. Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer when they’re still warm and tender.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Scallops in Garlic Butter Sauce are a quick and effortless way to enjoy a gourmet dish at home. With minimal preparation and clean-up, this recipe will appeal to both novice and experienced cooks. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some buttery mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy this culinary delight; it’s sure to become a favourite in your household!

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