Lemon Pepper Shrimp in the Air Fryer - Bright, Zesty, and Ready in Minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted unsalted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus wedges for serving)
- 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional but nice)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
- Nonstick cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Pat the shrimp dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry shrimp sear better and get a nicer finish.
- Mix the seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil or melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), and red pepper flakes.
- Toss the shrimp: Add shrimp to the bowl and stir until evenly coated. Let them sit for 3–5 minutes while the air fryer finishes heating.
- Arrange in a single layer: Place shrimp in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Work in batches if needed.
- Air fry: Cook for 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curled with a light golden edge.
- Finish and serve: Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and add a final squeeze of lemon. Serve hot over rice, salad, pasta, or tacos.
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