Crispy Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Scallop Bites

These crispy lemon garlic air fryer scallop bites are a fast, elegant snack that fits beautifully into a diabetic-friendly lifestyle. Scallops are naturally low in carbs and high in lean protein, and the air fryer delivers a golden exterior with minimal oil. The result is a light bite with satisfying texture that complements your air fryer meals keto routine, while avoiding the blood sugar spikes common with refined snacks. From a nutrition standpoint, scallops offer high-quality protein that supports satiety and helps slow gastric emptying, which is helpful for steady blood sugar. Paired with thin, crisp zucchini chips for fiber and potassium, this snack stays low in net carbs and supports heart health with minimal saturated fat. If you are accustomed to searching for keto air fryer bacon ideas, this seafood option is a flavorful change of pace that keeps carbs and calories in check. The same smart approach used in an air fryer bacon keto recipe applies here: dry surfaces, even spacing, and controlled heat for consistent browning. Each serving brings around 95 calories, approximately 14 grams of protein, about 2 grams of fat, and roughly 4 grams of net carbs. That balance makes these scallop bites ideal for between-meal nibbling or as a light appetizer. For food safety, cook shellfish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, verified with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). Accurate doneness prevents undercooking, maintains a tender center, and protects against foodborne illness. For the best texture, pat scallops very dry before seasoning so they sear instead of steam. Preheat the air fryer, space them in a single layer, and avoid overcrowding. Zucchini chips crisp quickly, so cook them first and keep warm while the scallops finish. A quality appliance such as a [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) lets you cook both components side by side for efficiency. Serve these scallop bites with lemon wedges, a sprinkle of parsley, or a quick Greek yogurt and garlic dip with no added sugar. They pair perfectly with simple mains like keto air fryer salmon or keto air fryer ribeye, rounding out your weekly plan of air fryer meals keto without extra carbs. For more low carb guidance, visit [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics) and expand your seafood repertoire. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat scallops in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes to restore crisp edges without overcooking. Try variations like Old Bay, lemon pepper, or smoked paprika for a slightly different profile each time. For more seafood tips, see the [Air Fryer Seafood Guide](/blog/air-fryer-seafood).

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

Ingredients

• 12 ounces sea scallops, large, patted very dry
• 1 medium zucchini (about 150 g), sliced into 1/8 inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Nonstick avocado oil spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
2. Toss zucchini rounds with olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and half of the lemon juice. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with avocado oil spray. Arrange zucchini in a single layer.
3. Air fry zucchini at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
4. Increase the air fryer temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Pat scallops very dry. In a bowl, combine scallops with lemon zest, remaining lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper. Lightly mist scallops with avocado oil spray.
6. Place scallops in a single layer in the preheated basket. Air fry at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Verify doneness with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon).
7. Serve scallops immediately alongside the warm zucchini chips and lemon wedges. Shellfish do not require a resting period once they reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer