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Frozen Shrimp Air Fryer Dinner

Frozen Shrimp Air Fryer Dinner - Fast, Flavorful, and Fuss-Free

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined, tail-on or off. Medium or large work best.
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1–2 tablespoons.
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon.
  • Paprika or smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon.
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon.
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste (about 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper).
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch for heat.
  • Lemon: 1, cut into wedges for serving.
  • Vegetable add-ins (choose 1–2): Broccoli florets, asparagus pieces, bell pepper strips, zucchini half-moons, or snap peas (about 3–4 cups).
  • Starch base (choose 1): Cooked rice, quinoa, couscous, or small potatoes (par-cooked or microwave-ready).
  • Fresh garnish (optional): Chopped parsley or cilantro.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 390–400°F (200–205°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the shrimp sear instead of steam.
  • Prep the shrimp: Keep them frozen. In a bowl, toss shrimp with oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Coat evenly.
  • Prep the veggies: Toss your chosen vegetables with a little oil, salt, and pepper. Thicker veggies like broccoli or potatoes need a slight head start.
  • Start with veggies: Add vegetables to the preheated basket in a single layer. Air fry 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway. If using quick-cooking veggies (like snap peas), start them 3–4 minutes instead.
  • Add the shrimp: Shake the basket to make space. Arrange shrimp in a single layer on top of or beside the veggies. Avoid piling.
  • Air fry the shrimp: Cook 5–7 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway. Shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and slightly curled with a light char on the edges.
  • Warm the starch: While shrimp cook, heat your rice, quinoa, or potatoes. A microwave-ready pouch works great here.
  • Finish and season: Squeeze fresh lemon over the shrimp and veggies. Taste and add a pinch of salt or an extra sprinkle of paprika if needed.
  • Plate it: Spoon starch into bowls, top with shrimp and veggies, and sprinkle with parsley or cilantro. Serve with extra lemon wedges.
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