Indulge your palate in the exquisite fusion of flavors with our meticulously crafted Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops. Elevate your dining experience with this sophisticated yet accessible recipe that marries the succulence of sea scallops with the smoky allure of perfectly crisped bacon. This delightful dish is an ideal choice for an upscale appetizer or a main course that captivates the senses.
Begin by patting dry 12 large sea scallops, ensuring the removal of any excess moisture. Embrace a symphony of flavors by seasoning the scallops with a harmonious blend of 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper. Toss the scallops in this aromatic medley, allowing them to absorb the rich essence of the seasonings.
Artful Assembly: Envelop each seasoned scallop with a slice of savory bacon, securing the ends with precision-placed toothpicks. This careful arrangement ensures that the bacon remains intact, creating a seamless blend of textures during the cooking process. The toothpicks, cleverly inserted through the bacon ends, serve as sentinels against any unwarranted unraveling, preserving the integrity of your culinary masterpiece.
Air Fryer Mastery: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to set the stage for culinary perfection. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops in a single layer within the air fryer basket, allowing them room to breathe. Let them dance in the hot air currents for 10-12 minutes, gracefully flipping halfway through the cooking time. Witness the magic unfold as the bacon achieves a golden crispness, while the scallops cook to tender perfection.
As the bacon-wrapped scallops emerge from the air fryer, remove the toothpicks with a deft touch. Arrange the culinary jewels on a platter, presenting them with finesse. For an added touch of sophistication, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, infusing a burst of color and freshness.
For those seeking an extra layer of indulgence, prepare a bespoke dipping sauce. Mix mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dash of smoked paprika, creating a velvety accompaniment that harmonizes with the robust flavors of the dish.
Whether served as a delectable appetizer at a soirée or as the centerpiece of a gourmet meal, these Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Each bite is a testament to the fusion of high-end gastronomy and the convenience of air frying, providing an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression.
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the scallops with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks. Make sure the toothpicks are inserted through the bacon ends to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
- Air Fry:
- Place the bacon-wrapped scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through. Cooking times may vary based on the size of your scallops and the air fryer model.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the toothpicks from the bacon-wrapped scallops.
- Serve the scallops hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
- Optional Dipping Sauce:
- Prepare a simple dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dash of smoked paprika. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your air fryer bacon-wrapped scallops as a delightful appetizer or serve them over a bed of greens or with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
