Name: Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish, look no further! Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic is the ultimate weeknight meal that comes together in a flash. Perfectly seasoned shrimp cooked to perfection in the air fryer is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic and shrimp is a classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a meal for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic is a game changer for a number of reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only about 10 minutes from start to finish. Second, the air fryer gives the shrimp a delightful crispiness without the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier option. Third, the aromatic garlic elevates the dish, creating a wonderful fragrance that will have everyone flocking to the dinner table. Finally, it’s highly versatile; serve it over pasta, in tacos, or on a salad, and you have a meal that meets every craving!

What You’ll Gather

To make Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

Tools of the Trade

You will need a few essential tools to make this recipe a breeze:

Air Fryer: The star of the show that ensures perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Measuring Spoons: To measure out the olive oil and seasonings accurately.
Cooking Spray: Optional, but useful to ensure the shrimp don’t stick to the air fryer basket.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it removes any excess moisture.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated in the seasoning mix. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen, and your taste buds will start to tingle with anticipation!

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important as it ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp

Place the marinated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s okay if they touch slightly, but avoid overcrowding for the best results. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them as they cook quickly!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic is not only delicious but also adaptable to the seasons. Here are some ideas to keep it fresh throughout the year:

In spring, serve the shrimp over a bed of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette.
In summer, pair the shrimp with a tropical mango salsa for a refreshing dish.
In fall, toss the shrimp with roasted vegetables and serve it warm.
In winter, mix the shrimp into a creamy pasta for a comforting meal.

Testing Timeline

When making Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic, it’s essential to check for doneness to avoid overcooking. Here’s a quick guide:

Prepping the shrimp takes about 5 minutes.
Air frying the shrimp will take approximately 6-8 minutes.
Overall, you can have this delicious dish ready in just 15 minutes!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To ensure your shrimp remain fresh and flavorful, follow these tips:

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
You can also freeze the shrimp before cooking if you want to save them for later; just make sure they are well sealed.
If you have leftover cooked shrimp, they can be reheated in the air fryer for about 3-4 minutes.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

How can I adjust the seasoning?

Feel free to experiment with different spices! Adding crushed red pepper flakes will give your shrimp a spicy kick, or you can try fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

What should I serve with the shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in tacos or on top of pasta!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While shrimp are best served fresh, you can prep the shrimp and marinate them a few hours in advance. Just air fry them right before serving for the best texture.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve enjoyed your Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic, here are some delightful recipes to try next:

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the steps and tips to make Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, which means you can enjoy a gourmet meal at home in no time. So gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and indulge in this flavorful seafood delight. Happy cooking!