Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Scallops with Zucchini and Mushrooms

This bright, buttery Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Scallops is a quick seafood dinner crafted for blood sugar stability. Tender sea scallops get a golden edge in the air fryer, then meet a zesty lemon garlic butter that keeps carbs low and flavor high. Paired with crisp-tender zucchini and mushrooms, this balanced plate fits air fryer meals keto goals while staying under 10 grams net carbs per serving. For diabetics, scallops offer lean protein with minimal fat and modest carbs, making them ideal for steady energy and satiety. Each serving provides about 29 grams of protein to help blunt post-meal glucose spikes, plus nonstarchy vegetables for volume and micronutrients. The recipe keeps sugars minimal by relying on citrus, herbs, and spices instead of sweet marinades. If you enjoy keto air fryer bacon or other low carb air fryer snacks, this savory seafood entrée slots perfectly into your weekly rotation. The glycemic profile of this dish is gentle. Zucchini and mushrooms are naturally low in net carbs, so the bulk of carbohydrates come from the scallops themselves, which remain controlled at about 9 grams net per serving. A measured amount of olive oil and butter adds richness and helps with fat-soluble nutrient absorption without overwhelming calories or sodium. For seafood fans accustomed to keto air fryer salmon or steak lovers browsing keto air fryer ribeye content, this scallop option brings variety and elegance. Technique matters for perfect scallops. Pat them very dry, preheat your air fryer thoroughly, and avoid overcrowding so the hot air can sear efficiently. A perforated liner helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning. If you frequently cook proteins and vegetables at once, a [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) simplifies timing and keeps textures crisp. For more foundational guidance, see [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics), and for a green side, try our quick [Air Fryer Green Beans](/recipes/air-fryer-green-beans). Serve these scallops over cauliflower mash or a simple arugula salad with olive oil and lemon. They reheat well at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes, making a smart leftover lunch. Swap zucchini for green beans or bok choy if you want variety, or add heat with red pepper flakes. Keep portions consistent to maintain carb control. For handy tools, consider [perforated parchment liners](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). Whether you are moving from keto air fryer salmon nights or mixing in occasional low carb air fryer snacks, this scallop dinner keeps your menu satisfying and blood sugar friendly. ## Tools Used A grill plate for high protein air fryer meals prevents delicate scallops from falling through the basket gaps. The flat cooking surface with drainage channels gives you an even sear on each scallop. We cover this accessory and others in our [essential air fryer accessories guide](/learn/air-fryer-accessories-essential-kit).

Prep: 12 min. Cook: 10 min. Servings: 2.

Ingredients

• Large sea scallops, 10 ounces (about 12 scallops), side muscle removed, patted very dry
• Zucchini, 1 medium (200 g), cut into 1/2 inch half moons
• Cremini mushrooms, 6 ounces (170 g), quartered
• Olive oil, 1 tablespoon, divided
• Unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon, melted
• Lemon zest, 1 teaspoon
• Fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon
• Garlic, 2 cloves, finely minced
• Smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon
• Sea salt, 3/4 teaspoon, divided
• Freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon, divided
• Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Red pepper flakes, 1/8 teaspoon, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. Line the basket with a perforated parchment liner if you have one.
2. Season the scallops: in a bowl, toss scallops with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Pat them dry again lightly to remove excess moisture while keeping the seasoning.
3. Season the vegetables: toss zucchini and mushrooms with the remaining olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the remaining pepper.
4. Air fry the vegetables: add zucchini and mushrooms to the basket in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp-tender.
5. Air fry the scallops: place scallops in a single layer with space between each. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning once at the 3 minute mark, until opaque with lightly browned edges and an internal temperature around 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Make the sauce: stir melted butter with lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to bloom the garlic, then stir.
7. Plate and serve: transfer scallops and vegetables to a platter and spoon the lemon garlic butter over the top. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer