How Long to Cook Frozen Scallops in Air Fryer for Perfection?

By Avi Green October 03, 2023

Cooking frozen scallops in the air fryer offers a convenient and delicious way to prepare seafood. But the question on many kitchen professionals' minds is, 'how long to cook frozen scallops in air fryer?' Knowing the answer not only ensures you serve perfectly tender scallops, but also enhances the overall dining experience.

The beauty of air frying stems from its ability to preserve flavor while providing a healthier cooking alternative compared to traditional frying methods. With just the right timing and temperature, you can achieve that sought-after golden brown crust, while keeping your scallops juicy and flavorful.

how long to cook frozen scallops in air fryer

Preparing Frozen Scallops for Air Frying

Before tackling the magic of air frying, its essential to prepare your frozen scallops properly. Here are steps you should follow:

**Thawing:** Its advisable to thaw scallops before cooking them. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water thawing method.
**Rinsing:** After thawing, rinse the scallops under cold water to remove any residue or ice particles.
**Drying:** Pat the scallops dry using paper towels. This step is crucial as a drier surface will ensure a more crispy texture.
**Seasoning:** Season the scallops to enhance their flavor. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a drizzle of olive oil works wonders.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

Now, let's delve into the main concern: cooking times and temperatures for your air fryer frozen scallops. The ideal temperature to cook scallops in an air fryer is set at **400F (200C)**.

Here are some key points on the cooking times:

If your scallops are about **1-inch thick**, cook them for about **8-10 minutes**.
For slightly thicker scallops, about **1.5 inches**, a cooking time of **10-12 minutes** should suffice.
Always check for doneness midway through, flipping the scallops to ensure even cooking.

Remember, scallops are done when they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned kitchen professionals can sometimes make mistakes when cooking scallops in an air fryer. Here are a few common pitfalls:

Overcrowding: Cooking too many scallops at once can lead to uneven cooking. Always leave space between each scallop.
Undercooking: Scallops should not be translucent. Ensure they're cooked until opaque.
Ignoring Preheating: Not preheating the air fryer can affect the cooking time and texture. Always preheat it for the best results.

Serving Suggestions for Air-Fried Scallops

Once you've perfected the cooking process, its time to think about presentation and pairing these delicious scallops. Here are a few suggestions:

Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the presentation.
Sides: Serve the scallops with a refreshing salad, grilled vegetables, or a bed of creamy risotto.
Sauces: Consider pairing with a garlic butter sauce or a tangy tartar sauce for dipping.

Ethical Considerations: Sourcing Scallops

As a kitchen professional, its essential to consider where your ingredients are sourced from. Make sure you choose sustainably sourced scallops to contribute to a healthier marine ecosystem.

You can find more information on sourcing scallops from reputable resources like Food Network.