Air Fryer Sea Scallops

Angle shot of air fried lemon sage scallops with garlic on plate.

AGT Editorial Team

5 from 5 votes

These quick and easy Air Fryer Scallops are flavored with lemon, garlic and tarragon. They take less than 10 minutes to whip up and make a fancy appetizer that pairs perfectly with white wine.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings: 4 people

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 162

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb. sea scallops *U/10 or U/15 (these are larger)
1 large garlic clove, minced
½ tablespoon tarragon, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste*
1 large lemon

Method

Clean your scallops and remove and side-muscle if needed by pulling. Pat dry them very well with a paper towel.
Add dried scallops to a medium bowl and add all of the ingredients except for the lemon juice. Coat each scallop thoroughly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
*No need to line your air fryer with foil unless your rack is non-stick.
When fully preheated, add your scallops to the air fryer making sure to spread them out so they're not touching. If needed, fry in two batches.
Air fry for 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F. (If using U/10 scallops, your frying time will be 1-2 minutes longer, if using U/20 scallops, take a minute off.)
Remove from air fryer, add to a serving plate and finish with freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Notes

Make sure to preheat your air fryer. If you do not, your scallops will take longer to cook.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your scallops and cook them to 145°F.
Using a quality oil like olive oil will make your scallops taste better.
If using FROZEN scallops, make sure to thaw in the fridge and pat dry very well before cooking.
Remove your scallops from the air fryer immediately so they do not overcook.