If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious seafood dish, look no further than Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops. This recipe is a game-changer, combining the delicate sweetness of scallops with the refreshing brightness of lemon and the aromatic flavor of dill. Plus, the air fryer makes cooking these beauties a breeze. They come out perfectly tender, with a lovely golden crust that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re serving it as a fancy entrée or a simple weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something so satisfying about cooking scallops. They are quick to prepare, and when done right, they are packed with flavor. The combination of lemon and dill in this Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops recipe elevates the natural sweetness of the scallops without overwhelming them. The air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures that you achieve a perfect sear without the need for excessive oil. Plus, it’s a low-mess way to enjoy seafood at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet meal in no time!
Shopping List
- 1 pound scallops – Look for fresh or frozen scallops; if frozen, make sure to thaw them before cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin is preferred for its flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – This adds richness to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- Juice of one lemon – Freshly squeezed juice is a must for brightness.
- 1 tablespoon dill, chopped – Fresh dill is recommended for optimal flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Tools of the Trade
- Air fryer – The star of the show! Make sure it has a good capacity for cooking scallops evenly.
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Spatula or tongs – To handle the scallops easily.
- Citrus juicer – To get every last drop of lemon juice.
Mastering Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops: How-To
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear better in the air fryer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill. This mixture will infuse the scallops with flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Scallops
Add the scallops to the bowl with the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the scallops get that nice golden crust when they cook.
Step 5: Arrange the Scallops
Place the marinated scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t touching to allow for even cooking.
Step 6: Cook the Scallops
Air fry the scallops for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be opaque and golden on the outside when done.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the scallops from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Texture-Safe Substitutions
- Butter – Use vegan butter or ghee if you prefer a dairy-free option.
- Scallops – Substitute with shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein option.
- Dill – If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill can work in a pinch, but use about half the amount.
- Lemon juice – Lime juice can be a refreshing alternative.
Cook’s Notes
- Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches ensures an even cook.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If using frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
- For a complete meal, serve with Lemon Herb Roasted Shrimp With Orzo Pilaf or alongside a fresh salad.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add the scallops right before you plan to cook them. Leftover cooked scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Reader Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, frozen scallops can be used. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating. This will help achieve that perfect sear.
How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and have a slight golden crust on the outside. They should not be rubbery or translucent.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the marinade?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or chives, or add spices like paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops?
These scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a refreshing salad, or even over pasta with a light sauce like in Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken And Asparagus Skillet.
Ready, Set, Cook
You are now armed with everything you need to make the most delicious Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops. The combination of fresh ingredients and the air fryer method results in a dish that is both quick and gourmet. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful seafood experience that will have your taste buds dancing! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Air Fryer Lemon Dill Scallops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear better in the air fryer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill. This mixture will infuse the scallops with flavor.
- Add the scallops to the bowl with the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the scallops get that nice golden crust when they cook.
- Place the marinated scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t touching to allow for even cooking.
- Air fry the scallops for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be opaque and golden on the outside when done.
- Remove the scallops from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches ensures an even cook.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If using frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
