You’re in for a treat with this recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp in the Air Fryer. The combination of zesty lemons, savory garlic, and rich butter creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs perfectly with juicy shrimp. And with the air fryer, you’ll achieve a crispy and golden texture without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a satisfying main dish, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
To make this delicious lemon garlic butter shrimp in the air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
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Preparation
Before you start cooking, make sure to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the shrimp cooks evenly and becomes crispy in the air fryer.
In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will form the delicious garlic butter sauce that the shrimp will be coated in.
Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them until they are well coated in the garlic butter mixture. The shrimp should be evenly coated to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.
Once the shrimp is coated, it’s time to cook them in the air fryer. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure that they are not overcrowded. This will ensure that the shrimp cooks evenly and becomes crispy on all sides.
Now it’s time to air fry the shrimp! Cook the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and be fully cooked through.
Once the shrimp is cooked, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
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Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to customize your lemon garlic butter shrimp in the air fryer:
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter mixture. Alternatively, you can also add a dash of hot sauce to add some heat to the dish.
- For a twist, you can experiment with different seasonings. Try adding Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs to the garlic butter mixture for a unique flavor profile.
- To elevate the dish, serve the lemon garlic butter shrimp over a bed of rice or pasta. The shrimp and sauce can also be paired with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also grill the shrimp for a smoky twist. Simply thread the coated shrimp onto skewers and grill them for a few minutes on each side until they are cooked through.
- For a healthier version of this dish, you can substitute olive oil for butter and reduce the amount of salt and butter used in the recipe. This will reduce the calorie and fat content while still maintaining the delicious flavor.
- Switch things up by trying different citrus flavors. Instead of lemon, you can use lime or orange to add a tangy twist to the dish.
- If you prefer oven-baking, you can also cook the shrimp in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes. This will yield similar results to cooking them in the air fryer.
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Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Using an air fryer to cook your lemon garlic butter shrimp offers several benefits:
- Air frying reduces the amount of oil used in cooking, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. By using hot air circulation, the air fryer creates a crisp outer layer without the need for excessive oil or greasy coating.
- The air fryer produces perfectly crispy and evenly cooked food. It eliminates the need for constant flipping or stirring, resulting in evenly browned shrimp.
- Air fryers are convenient and time-saving. They preheat quickly and cook food faster than traditional ovens, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Air fryers are versatile appliances that can be used to cook a variety of dishes. From appetizers like chicken wings and mozzarella sticks to main courses like steak or salmon, and even desserts like apple fritters, the possibilities are endless.
- Cleaning and maintaining an air fryer is a breeze. Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher safe, and any leftover grease or oil can be easily wiped away. Compared to deep fryers or stovetop cooking methods, the air fryer is much easier to clean up after cooking.
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Nutritional Value
This lemon garlic butter shrimp dish cooked in the air fryer is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Shrimp is a low-calorie source of protein and is rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining heart health, supporting brain function, and boosting the immune system.
- Lemons are high in vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. They also provide a burst of citrusy flavor to the dish, complementing the richness of the garlic and butter.
- Garlic contains compounds with potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing blood pressure, and improving heart health. It also adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Butter adds richness and creaminess to the shrimp, contributing to its overall flavor. However, it is important to note that butter is high in calories and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute olive oil for butter and reduce the amount of fat and salt used in the recipe.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, lemon garlic butter shrimp cooked in the air fryer is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it is a perfect option for quick weeknight meals or special occasions.
The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and rich butter creates a flavor-packed sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly. Cooking the shrimp in the air fryer ensures that they become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to add more variety to your air fryer recipes, this lemon garlic butter shrimp is a must-try. With its health benefits, versatility, and delicious taste, it’s a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this mouthwatering shrimp dish!