Juicy, succulent shrimp make for a delightful meal, especially when cooked in an air fryer. Air Fryer Shrimp offers a crispy texture while keeping the juicy flavor of the shrimp intact, all without the extra oil that traditional frying requires. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this dish is sure to impress. With a bright lemony flavor and a hint of garlic, each bite is a burst of deliciousness that you won’t want to miss.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
This recipe stands out as a go-to dish for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, the cooking method retains the natural flavors of the shrimp while enhancing them with a perfect blend of seasonings. The air fryer technology allows you to achieve a crisp outer layer without needing to deep fry, making it a healthier option. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; you can have it ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish. The dish is versatile and can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal, appealing to both seafood lovers and those new to cooking shrimp.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Air Fryer Shrimp:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, large, peeled and deveined with tail on
- Cooking spray (avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Zest of one lemon
- Fresh herbs for garnish
- 4 tsp butter (dairy-free, if desired)
- 1/4 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove of sliced fresh garlic
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Directions
Getting to that perfect shrimp dish is a straightforward process. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, take your raw shrimp and pat them dry using a clean paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture.
Next, spray the shrimp generously with your choice of cooking spray, whether it’s avocado or extra virgin olive oil. Once coated, sprinkle the salt, paprika, and garlic powder over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly covered in the seasoning mix. This will infuse your shrimp with a delightful flavor profile.
Once your shrimp are seasoned, it’s time to arrange them in the air fryer basket. Lay them out in a single layer for even cooking – don’t overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven results. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on one side, then carefully shake the basket or flip the shrimp halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides.
While your shrimp cooks, melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Add in the sliced garlic and lemon juice to the butter, allowing the flavors to blend together as the shrimp cooks. Once the shrimp is fully cooked (it should be opaque and curled), transfer them to a serving platter.
Before drizzling the flavorful garlic butter sauce over the shrimp, consider removing the garlic slices for a smooth finish. Finally, sprinkle the dish with lemon zest and your choice of fresh herbs for a beautiful, appetizing presentation. Voilà—your Air Fryer Shrimp is ready to indulge!
How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp
Serving your Air Fryer Shrimp is as enjoyable as making it. This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving the shrimp hot on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a light salad for a refreshing meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, make some flavorful tacos with soft tortillas, fresh vegetables, and your favorite sauce.
This shrimp also works well as an appetizer. Serve it in small portions with toothpicks for easy enjoyment at gatherings or parties. You can add dipping sauces such as a homemade aioli or spicy mayo alongside your shrimp for an extra touch. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to impress!
Expert Tips: Air Fryer Shrimp
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp or high-quality frozen shrimp. If using frozen, allow them to thaw completely and pat them dry; moisture can hinder crispiness.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to explore and adjust the seasonings to your taste. Consider adding cayenne pepper for a kick or switching up the herbs based on what you have at hand.
- Avoid Overcrowding: For the best results, cook the shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than frying, affecting texture.
- Check with a Meat Thermometer: If you want accuracy, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure the shrimp reaches an internal temperature of 120°F for safe consumption.
- Make it Dairy-Free: To keep the dish dairy-free, you can use plant-based butter or skip the butter altogether and simply drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil for a lighter option.
How to Store Air Fryer Shrimp
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we suspect you might not!), storing your Air Fryer Shrimp is quite simple. Allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the air fryer for a minute or two until warmed through. Avoid using a microwave, as this can make shrimp rubbery and adversely affect texture.
Variation of Air Fryer Shrimp
Air Fryer Shrimp is a versatile dish that lends itself to numerous variations to suit your preferences.
- Spicy Shrimp: For a spicy kick, consider marinating your shrimp in a mix of chili powder and lime juice before air frying.
- Coconut Shrimp: Use shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Dip the shrimp in an egg wash, then coat with shredded coconut and air fry.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the shrimp during the last couple of minutes of cooking for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Shrimp Skewers: Thread shrimp onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and onions before air frying for a delightful difference in presentation.
FAQ about Air Fryer Shrimp
What is the best way to clean shrimp?
To clean shrimp, run them under cold water and remove any shells and veins. If they have the shell on, simply pull the shell off and devein by making a shallow incision in the back and removing the dark vein.
Can you air fry frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can air fry frozen shrimp without thawing. Adjust the cooking time slightly, cooking them for an additional minute or two until fully cooked.
How do you know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and curl up into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl into an “O” shape, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Shrimp?
Pair your Air Fryer Shrimp with various sides like salads, rice, or pasta. It can also be served in tacos or as an appetizer.
Air Fryer Shrimp
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, large, peeled and deveined with tail on Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp.
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1/4 tsp paprika Smoked paprika can be used for an enhanced flavor.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp zest of lemon Adds bright flavor.
- 1/4 tsp fresh lemon juice Use fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 clove fresh garlic, sliced
- 4 tsp butter Dairy-free if desired.
- Cooking spray avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil For coating the shrimp.
- Fresh herbs for garnish Optional but recommended.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Pat the raw shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Spray the shrimp with cooking spray, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle salt, paprika, and garlic powder over the shrimp and mix well to coat.
Cooking
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on one side, then shake the basket or flip the shrimp halfway through.
- Melt the butter in a small bowl, then mix in the sliced garlic and fresh lemon juice.
- Once the shrimp is opaque and curled, transfer it to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp and garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs.
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