Air Fryer Colossal Garlic and Lemon Shrimp 🍤🍋
This Air Fryer Colossal Garlic and Lemon Shrimp is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal, appetizer, or even as a side to your favorite main course. The air fryer ensures that the shrimp are perfectly cooked and crispy without the need for oil. Plus, the garlic and lemon infuse the shrimp with irresistible flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb colossal shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Shrimp:
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp get crispy when cooking in the air fryer.
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Make the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix well.
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Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors. You can also marinate them in the fridge for up to 1 hour if you have more time.
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Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
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Cook the Shrimp:
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crispness. The shrimp should be pink and opaque when cooked through.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Once the shrimp are done, transfer them to a plate and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Customize the Seasoning: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more garlic, lemon, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these shrimp with a side of rice, over a salad, or alongside a pasta dish for a complete meal.
These Air Fryer Colossal Garlic and Lemon Shrimp are sure to impress with their bold flavors and perfectly tender texture! Enjoy! 🍤🍋
