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Easy Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic & Paprika

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic & Paprika

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Cook Time 7 minutes
Pre-heat 3 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined (tail on or off)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika for a milder flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges (use zest and juice if you like)
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Nonstick spray optional, for the air fryer basket

Instructions
 

  • Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear instead of steaming, giving you better texture.
  • Mix the seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to form a loose paste.
  • Coat the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. If you have time, let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket if your model tends to stick.
  • Arrange and cook: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping halfway. Shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and just curled.
  • Finish with lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon over the hot shrimp. Taste and add a pinch more salt if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley.
  • Serve: Enjoy immediately with extra lemon wedges. Great over rice, pasta, salad, or tucked into warm tortillas.