When it comes to seafood, shrimp holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s light, versatile, and incredibly fast to cook, making it a favorite in busy kitchens. In this article, you will discover how to make delicious and perfectly cooked Air Fryer Shrimp. The air fryer has revolutionized cooking by allowing you to achieve that crispy, golden texture without the need for excessive oil. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, delectable recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
There are countless reasons to love Air Fryer Shrimp. For starters, you can prepare it in just a matter of minutes, making it an ideal option for quick weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. The air fryer’s rapid cooking ability ensures that the shrimp retains its natural moisture while achieving a delightful crunch on the outside. This recipe uses basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, allowing you to whip it up anytime you’re in the mood for something delicious and satisfying. Plus, with the addition of fresh lemon and dill, your shrimp will burst with flavor, making each bite an experience to remember.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Shrimp
To create this scrumptious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dill weed
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon and lemon wedges for serving
- 2 pounds raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
- Chopped fresh dill for garnish (optional)
These ingredients not only bring out the shrimp’s natural sweetness but also add layers of flavor, ensuring that your dish will be a hit.
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp
Making Air Fryer Shrimp is straightforward, and the entire process can be completed in under 30 minutes. Here’s how you can master this delicious recipe:
In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, dill weed, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you choose to use baking soda, add it to the mixture. The baking soda is optional but can help achieve a slightly crispier texture. Next, add the lemon zest and whisk everything together until well combined.
Pat the shrimp dry using a paper towel. This step is essential, as removing excess moisture helps the shrimp crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Once the shrimp are dry, add them to the bowl with the olive oil mixture. Carefully turn the shrimp in the mixture to ensure they are fully coated with the seasoning blend.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This preheating step allows for even cooking and optimal crispiness. After preheating, transfer the shrimp into the air fryer basket, ensuring that they are placed in a single layer with some space between each shrimp. This spacing allows the hot air to circulate around the shrimp effectively.
Air fry the shrimp for approximately 5 to 6 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they turn pink, curl slightly, and develop a lightly browned exterior. Because air fryer brands can vary, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking.
Once done, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and optional chopped dill for garnish. This simple presentation will make your dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp
Air Fryer Shrimp is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving options. Consider the following ideas for an unforgettable presentation:
Tacos: Create shrimp tacos by placing the cooked shrimp in corn or flour tortillas topped with avocado slices, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy sauce for an extra kick.
Salads: Add the shrimp to mixed green salads for a protein-packed meal. Toss with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to add depth to the flavors.
Pasta Dishes: Incorporate the shrimp into a pasta dish with garlic, olive oil, and your favorite vegetables for a delicious feast.
Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto skewers for a fun appetizer at your next barbecue or gathering.
No matter how you decide to serve your Air Fryer Shrimp, the incorporation of fresh lemon wedges will enhance the flavor with its zesty brightness, balancing the richness of the shrimp perfectly.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Shrimp
To ensure your Air Fryer Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Choose Quality Shrimp: Fresh or properly frozen shrimp will yield the best results. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild ocean scent. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, be sure to let them thaw completely before cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to allow the hot air to circulate effectively around each piece.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to get adventurous with your spices. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or swapping out dill for your favorite fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Check for Doneness: Cooking times can slightly vary depending on the size of your shrimp and the specific model of your air fryer. Keep an eye on them and check for that gorgeous pink color and curl.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve your shrimp right after cooking. They are scrumptious hot but can lose some of that delightful crispness if left to sit for too long.
How to Store Air Fryer Shrimp
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry; storing your Air Fryer Shrimp is easy. Allow the shrimp to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F for just a few minutes until heated through. This will help to restore some of the crispy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag. They should retain their quality for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations of Air Fryer Shrimp
One of the wonderful things about Air Fryer Shrimp is its adaptability. Here are some delicious variations you might consider trying out:
Buffalo Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in your favorite buffalo sauce after air frying for a spicy, tangy twist. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Coconut Shrimp: For a sweeter take, dip the shrimp in a mixture of shredded coconut and breadcrumbs before air frying. This will give you a crunchy, tropical flavor that’s hard to resist.
Garlic Lemon Shrimp: Increase the amount of garlic in your seasoning mix to create a zesty garlic lemon shrimp. Adding a dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up even more!
Sweet and Spicy Shrimp: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar into the olive oil mixture for a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the paprika and black pepper.
Mediterranean Shrimp: Use Mediterranean-inspired spices such as oregano, cumin, and some chopped olives for a different flavor profile. Add these to the olive oil mixture for a vibrant twist.
These variations allow you to customize your Air Fryer Shrimp to match your cravings and the ingredients you have on hand.
FAQ About Air Fryer Shrimp
How do you make Air Fryer Shrimp crispy?
To achieve crispy Air Fryer Shrimp, ensure that you pat the shrimp dry before seasoning. Preheating the air fryer and avoiding overcrowding the basket are also essential for that perfect crunch.
Can you use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to ensure the best texture and flavor.
How long does it take to air fry shrimp?
Air frying shrimp typically takes about 5 to 6 minutes at 400°F, but cooking times may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and your specific air fryer.
Air Fryer Shrimp
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dill weed
- 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp baking soda optional
- 2 lbs raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
- Chopped fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, dill weed, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and baking soda (if using). Add lemon zest and whisk until well combined.
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel, then add them to the bowl with the olive oil mixture. Toss until the shrimp are fully coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry the shrimp for 5 to 6 minutes, or until they turn pink and are lightly browned.
- Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges and optional chopped dill for garnish.
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