Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear in the air fryer.
In a bowl, toss the scallops with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Scallops
Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are not touching to allow for even cooking.
Cook the scallops at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 125°F (52°C).
Step 4: Serve
Remove the scallops from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.