Quick & Easy Shrimp Air Fryer Meal - Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large; tail on or off)
- 1–1.5 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon (zest and wedges for serving)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- Serving ideas: pre-cooked microwave rice or quinoa, bagged salad mix, tortillas, or steamed veggies
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390–400°F (200°C). A hot basket helps the shrimp sear and cook fast.
- Dry the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of browning.
- Season: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add lemon zest for extra brightness.
- Arrange in a single layer: Place shrimp in the air fryer basket without crowding. If needed, cook in two batches for even results.
- Air fry: Cook 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway. Shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and slightly curled into a C-shape.
- Finish with lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot shrimp. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Serve your way: Pile onto rice with a handful of herbs, toss with a quick salad, or tuck into warm tortillas with avocado and a drizzle of hot sauce.
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