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Air Fryer Blackened Scallops with Cauliflower Puree

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Savor restaurant-quality air fryer blackened scallops with tender centers and a crispy, spice-kissed crust, served on a silky low-carb cauliflower puree for a healthy, elegant dish perfect for weeknight meals or date nights.

  • Total Time: 27
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb large sea scallops (about 12, dry-packed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning free of pork or alcohol
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups riced cauliflower, steamed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon low-sodium chicken broth or water
1/2 teaspoon salt
Chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
Lemon zest or juice, for serving

Instructions

Pat scallops dry with paper towels and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Heat air fryer. Evenly brush olive oil over scallops, then press spice mixture into both sides.
Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–7 minutes or until golden browned and slightly charred on top, rotating halfway.
While scallops cook, prepare the cauliflower puree: Place steamed riced cauliflower in a bowl. Add butter, chicken broth or water, and salt. Use an immersion blender or standard blender to puree until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Arrange puree on plates and top with scallops. Garnish with chives and a squeeze of lemon juice or zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use dry-packed scallops for best results—avoid wet-packed to ensure proper browning.
For a vegan option, skip scallops; substitute with vegan cauliflower ‘steaks’ and a nut-based puree.
For a nut-free puree, skip butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative.
Air fryer times may vary slightly depending on model; adjust as needed for doneness.

  • Author: Amelie Harper
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 12
  • Category: High Protein Meals
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American Southern
  • Diet: Low-Carb

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg