This healthy air fryer garlic shrimp recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a light meal or as a protein-packed addition to salads and grain bowls, these shrimp are cooked to perfection with minimal oil.
Using an air fryer allows for a crispy texture without the excess calories, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy delicious shrimp in a healthier way.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp
This dish showcases shrimp that are marinated in a delightful blend of garlic, lemon juice, and spices, resulting in a burst of flavor with every bite. The air fryer method ensures that the shrimp are cooked to a perfect golden brown, providing a satisfying texture without the need for excessive oil.
With a total preparation and cooking time of just 18 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a quick yet impressive meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the shrimp to shine through.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to this dish lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, large shrimp are essential, as they provide a juicy and tender bite. The marinade, made with olive oil, minced garlic, and a hint of lemon juice, enhances the shrimp’s flavor while keeping it light.
Spices like paprika and black pepper add depth and a touch of warmth, making each shrimp pop with flavor. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also a fresh herbal note that complements the dish beautifully.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marination is a crucial step in this recipe. Allowing the shrimp to soak in the marinade for just 10 minutes infuses them with flavor, ensuring that each bite is packed with garlic and spice. This brief marination time is perfect for those who want to keep things quick without sacrificing taste.
While the shrimp marinate, the air fryer can be preheated, making the cooking process even more efficient. This multitasking approach is perfect for anyone looking to streamline their cooking routine.
Cooking to Perfection
Cooking the shrimp in the air fryer is where the magic happens. The high temperature allows the shrimp to cook quickly, resulting in a tender interior and a slightly crispy exterior. Shaking the basket halfway through ensures even cooking, so every shrimp is perfectly done.
In just 6 to 8 minutes, you’ll have a plate of shrimp that are not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious. The vibrant pink color of the cooked shrimp signals that they are ready to be enjoyed.
Serving Suggestions
Once the shrimp are cooked, they can be garnished with chopped parsley and served with lemon wedges for an extra zing. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad or a bed of grains, making it versatile for any meal.
For an elegant presentation, serve the shrimp on a white plate against a rustic wooden background. This contrast enhances the visual appeal, making it a perfect dish for entertaining guests or enjoying a special meal at home.
Nutritional Benefits
This air-fried garlic shrimp is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. With only 180 calories per serving and a good balance of protein and healthy fats, it fits well into a balanced diet. The low carbohydrate content makes it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Enjoying this dish means savoring a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious, allowing you to indulge without guilt. It’s a great way to incorporate seafood into your diet while keeping things light and flavorful.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp
This recipe features succulent shrimp marinated in garlic, lemon juice, and spices, then air-fried until golden and tender. It takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Place the marinated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or over a bed of greens.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 2g