Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Scallops with Parmesan Broccoli

Name: Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Scallops with Parmesan Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops, thawed if frozen, patted very dry; 3 cups broccoli florets (about 10 ounces); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided; 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges, for serving

These air fryer lemon garlic scallops are tender inside, lightly caramelized outside, and paired with crisp Parmesan broccoli for a colorful, low carb plate that supports steady blood sugar. As a diabetic-friendly dinner, it fits seamlessly into air fryer meals keto fans love, delivering satisfying protein and fiber without spiking carbs. You will get restaurant-quality scallops in minutes, all from your countertop. Why it works for blood sugar: scallops are a naturally lean, low carbohydrate seafood that provides high quality protein and B12 with minimal saturated fat. The broccoli brings fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, helping slow digestion and support balanced glucose. With only about 7 grams net carbs per serving, this recipe keeps you well under a typical low carb target without sacrificing flavor. If you enjoy the simplicity of keto air fryer bacon or follow an air fryer bacon keto recipe for breakfast, this dinner continues the same straightforward approach with clean ingredients and no added sugars. Nutrition highlights per serving are approximately 200 calories, 22 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, and 7 grams net carbs. The olive oil and a small sprinkle of Parmesan add richness that increases satiety, which can help reduce between-meal snacking. Fans of keto air fryer salmon and keto air fryer ribeye will appreciate the same high heat air fryer technique that builds a flavorful crust while keeping the center juicy. Cooking tips: pat scallops very dry for better browning, and preheat your air fryer so they sear on contact. Cook the broccoli first, then the scallops, or use a [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to do both at once. Always verify doneness with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). Shellfish should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Whole meat cuts like beef, lamb, and pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit and rest 3 minutes per USDA guidance. Serve with lemon wedges, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a quick cauliflower mash for a cozy steakhouse-style plate. Refrigerate leftovers in a shallow container for up to 2 days and reheat scallops gently at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes to avoid overcooking. For more low carb ideas, browse [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics) or try my crisp and flaky [Crispy Air Fryer Salmon](/recipes/keto-air-fryer-salmon). These simple, balanced plates make sticking to a plan easy and enjoyable.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 16 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

1 pound large sea scallops, thawed if frozen, patted very dry
3 cups broccoli florets (about 10 ounces)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prep scallops. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator, then blot very dry with paper towels. Dry scallops brown better in the air fryer.
Season scallops. In a bowl, combine scallops with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss gently and set aside.
Prep broccoli. In a separate bowl, toss broccoli with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
Cook broccoli. Air fry broccoli at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp tender and browned at the edges. If you have a dual basket unit, cook broccoli and scallops simultaneously in separate baskets.
Cook scallops. Increase or maintain the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange scallops in a single layer with space between them. Air fry 6 to 8 minutes, flipping at 4 minutes, until the centers reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Verify with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) for accuracy.
Food safety note. Shellfish should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit and can be served immediately. Whole meat cuts of beef, lamb, and pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit and rest 3 minutes per USDA guidance.
Serve. Plate scallops with Parmesan broccoli, sprinkle parsley, and add lemon wedges. Enjoy hot.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer