Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Thaw the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes.
- Dry the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispy texture.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Pour the seasoning mix over the shrimp and toss until all the shrimp are evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Arrange the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not overlap or touch each other to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry: Cook the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The shrimp should be pink, opaque, and slightly crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy immediately while they are hot and crispy.
Tips and Variations
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 2 minced garlic cloves to the seasoning mix for a bright, garlicky flavor.
- Coconut Shrimp: Coat the shrimp in a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs after tossing them in the seasoning mix for a crunchy, tropical twist. You may need to spray them with a bit of cooking spray before air frying.
- Serving Ideas: Serve the shrimp with a side of cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or over a bed of salad greens for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (about 1/4 pound of shrimp) provides approximately:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
Air fryer shrimp is a versatile and delicious dish that can be whipped up in no time. The air fryer ensures that the shrimp are perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
This recipe is easy to follow and allows for plenty of customization based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or serving guests, these air fryer shrimp are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish, and savor the rave reviews from everyone who tries it. Happy cooking!