Air Fryer Shrimp: The Ultimate Shrimp Recipe

Introduction to Air Fryer Shrimp

Air fryer shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of the sea with a zesty twist. Perfectly cooked shrimp can be a game changer for your meals, offering a quick, healthy, and delicious option that everyone will love. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or an impressive dish for entertaining guests.

A Personal Story Behind My Air Fryer Shrimp Journey

I remember the first time I tried air-fried shrimp at a friend’s house. The shrimp were tender, bursting with flavor, and had the perfect crunch. I was amazed at how easy it was to cook them without the mess of traditional frying. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to prepare air fryer shrimp for family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. It has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you.

What Makes This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe Special?

This air fryer shrimp recipe stands out because of its simple yet flavorful marinade. The combination of extra virgin olive oil, dill weed, and lemon zest creates a refreshing taste that perfectly complements the shrimp. Cooking them in an air fryer not only reduces the oil needed but also ensures they come out perfectly cooked in just minutes. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying, making it a win-win for everyone!

The Full Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

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
• 2 pounds raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
• Chopped fresh dill (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, dill weed, paprika, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. If you choose to use it, add the baking soda and lemon zest, then whisk everything together until well combined.
2. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Add the shrimp to the bowl with the olive oil mixture, ensuring each shrimp is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
3. Air fry the shrimp: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each one for even cooking. Air fry the shrimp for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until they turn pink, curl up, and start to brown at the edges. Check them halfway through to ensure they are cooking evenly.
4. Serve: Garnish the shrimp with lemon wedges and chopped fresh dill, if desired. For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some lemon juice over the cooked shrimp before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Air Fryer Shrimp

Air fryer shrimp can be served in a variety of ways. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal, or serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more substantial dish. You can also use the shrimp in tacos, adding your favorite toppings like avocado and salsa for a fun twist. If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding different herbs or spices to the marinade, such as cayenne pepper for heat or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
The shrimp should be pink and opaque when fully cooked. They will also curl up slightly as they cook.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Recipe Stats

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 200
• Servings: 4

Enjoy these zesty and flavorful lemon dill shrimp straight from your air fryer!

Air Fryer Shrimp

Zesty and flavorful shrimp cooked to perfection in the air fryer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 16 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Air fryer Make sure to preheat before use.

Ingredients

  

Main 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
• 0.25 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
• 1 lemon zest from 1 lemon
• 2 pounds raw extra jumbo shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
• Chopped fresh dill (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, dill weed, paprika, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and pepper. If using, add baking soda and lemon zest, whisk together.
• Pat the shrimp dry and add them to the marinade, ensuring each shrimp is fully coated.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place shrimp in the basket, leaving space in between. Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes until pink and curled.
• Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill before serving. Squeeze lemon juice for extra flavor if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, squeeze lemon juice over the cooked shrimp before serving.

Keyword Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe