AIR FRYER SHRIMP.

Equipment

• Basket-style or Tray-style Air Fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Paper towels
• Tongs
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) raw large shrimp (16–20 count per pound), peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off based on preference)
• 1.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle heat kick)
• 1 medium lemon, cut into wedges for serving
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Cooking Intensities & Temperature Settings

• Preheat Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
• Cooking Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
• Fan Speed / Intensity Mode: High Convection / Standard Air Fry Mode
• Air Circulation: Single layer placement with room between shrimp to ensure optimal air circulation and crisping.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Dry the Shrimp

1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely under cool running water or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing moisture from the surface is crucial for achieving a seared texture rather than steaming the shrimp in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

1. Transfer the dried shrimp into a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss until every piece is lightly coated.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the oiled shrimp. Toss thoroughly until all shrimp are coated in the fragrant spice mix.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer basket is hot upon contact, giving the shrimp an immediate sear.

Step 4: Air Fry in a Single Layer

1. Place the seasoned shrimp into the preheated air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer , making sure they are not stacked on top of one another. (If using a smaller basket air fryer, work in two separate batches).
2. Cook at 400°F (200°C) on High Convection for 6 to 8 minutes .
3. At the 3.5 to 4-minute mark , pull the basket out and shake gently, or use tongs to flip the individual shrimp over for even browning.

Step 5: Check Doneness and Serve

1. The shrimp are fully cooked when they turn an opaque pink and white color, curling into a distinct ‘C’ shape with lightly browned edges. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking into a tight ‘O’ shape, which indicates tough shrimp.
2. Remove the shrimp immediately using tongs to prevent residual cooking heat from toughening them up.
3. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 185 kcal — · Protein: 28 g 56% · Fat: 6.5 g 8% · Carbohydrates: 2 g 1% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 1.0 g 5% · Fiber: 0.5 g 2% · Sugar: 0.2 g — · Sodium: 590 mg 26%