Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

If you love shrimp dishes that are quick, bursting with flavor, and perfectly juicy, then this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender shrimp coated in a fragrant marinade of garlic, paprika, and that bright splash of fresh lemon juice, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a crispy, satisfying bite. It’s a recipe that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or impressing friends without the fuss. Once you try this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever made shrimp any other way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe keeps things beautifully simple with just a handful of ingredients, each contributing essential flavor and texture that come together naturally. The bright acidity, subtle heat, and aromatic garlic all play starring roles to bring this dish alive.

• 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, shrimp offers a sweet, tender bite that cooks quickly and soaks up marinades beautifully.
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil: A mild oil with a high smoke point that helps the shrimp crisp up nicely without overpowering the flavors.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives this recipe an unmistakable warm and savory aroma that pairs brilliantly with shrimp.
• 1 tsp ground paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and vibrant red color that makes the shrimp look as good as they taste.
• ¼ tsp sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while keeping the seasoning balanced.
• 1 to 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: The final, zesty touch that brightens up the dish with refreshing citrus notes.

How to Make Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Shrimp

Start by placing your peeled and deveined shrimp into a zip lock bag with the avocado oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and ground paprika. Sealing the bag tightly, give it a good shake or massage to make sure each shrimp gets a lovely coating of the marinade. This step is crucial because the shrimp absorbs all those bold flavors while resting.

Step 2: Marinate for Flavor

Pop the bag in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for several hours or up to 8 hours will deepen the flavors even more—giving you that rich, garlicky punch you’re craving when cooked.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Before cooking, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a hot environment that helps the shrimp cook quickly and develop a slight crisp on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

Step 4: Arrange Shrimp in the Air Fryer

Place the shrimp in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, this might mean cooking the shrimp in two batches so they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and soggy results, which is definitely not what you want here.

Step 5: Air Fry the Shrimp

Cook the shrimp for 4 minutes, then check them. If they aren’t quite done, give them another minute or so. The shrimp should be completely pink and firm, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Be careful not to overcook—the perfect shrimp should be juicy and tender, not rubbery.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice

Once the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to your serving plate and drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. This fresh hit of brightness elevates every bite, rounding out the garlic and paprika flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side not only enhance the visual appeal but also allow everyone to adjust the citrus tang to their personal liking.

Side Dishes

This Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with light and simple sides. Think fluffy jasmine rice, a crisp green salad, or even buttery garlic bread that soaks up every last drop of juice and seasoning from the shrimp. For a healthier twist, roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these shrimp over a bed of creamy avocado slices or mixed greens for a refreshing shrimp salad. Alternatively, toss the shrimp with cooked pasta or spiralized zucchini, then drizzle with a little olive oil and extra lemon for an easy yet impressive meal. Inviting your guests to build their own shrimp tacos with soft tortillas, fresh salsa, and creamy sauces is another fun way to enjoy this recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or a speedy addition to salads and wraps the following day.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze cooked shrimp. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. A quick reheat is all that’s needed to bring back that fresh-cooked taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture. This helps the shrimp crisp up properly in the air fryer.

What if I don’t have avocado oil? Can I use something else?

Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with olive oil or any other neutral cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil is great for its mild flavor and high smoke point, but olive oil adds a lovely richness too.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Cooked shrimp turn a vibrant pink color and curl into a loose “C” shape. They should be firm but still tender. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye during air frying to get it just right.

Can I add more spices or herbs to this recipe?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add chili flakes for heat, fresh herbs for extra aroma, or a pinch of cumin for a smoky twist. Just remember to balance the flavors so the lemon and garlic shine through.

Is this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just double-check any add-ons or side dishes if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the ease and flavor of this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe to brighten up your dinner table. It’s speedy, packed with fresh zesty flavors, and so satisfying every time. Whether you’re a shrimp fanatic or just looking for a tasty way to mix up your meals, give this recipe a try—you might just fall in love with shrimp all over again.

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