Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the main protein of the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture.

Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps the seasoning adhere to the shrimp while promoting even cooking.

Lemon pepper seasoning: A zesty blend of lemon and black pepper that gives the shrimp a bright and tangy flavor.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste with a subtle garlic flavor that complements the lemon pepper seasoning.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, it adds a burst of citrusy freshness that elevates the dish.

To ensure your shrimp cook evenly and achieve a perfect texture, make sure they are all similar in size. If you have a mix of larger and smaller shrimp, consider separating them and cooking in batches. This will prevent overcooking the smaller ones while waiting for the larger ones to cook through. Additionally, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help the olive oil and seasonings adhere better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• peeled and deveined shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative for shrimp in this recipe.

• peeled and deveined shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Cut into small pieces, chicken breast can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors well.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is neutral in flavor and also has a high smoke point, making it a good alternative.

• lemon pepper seasoning - Substitute with lemon zest and black pepper: Fresh lemon zest combined with black pepper can replicate the citrusy and peppery notes of lemon pepper seasoning.

• lemon pepper seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: For a different but equally flavorful twist, cajun seasoning can add a spicy kick to the dish.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• garlic powder - Substitute with shallot powder: Shallot powder can offer a milder, slightly sweet garlic-like flavor.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can provide a similar acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can add a tangy and slightly fruity note, similar to lemon juice.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container. If you have a lot of shrimp, consider layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the shrimp within 2-3 days. For longer storage, move to the freezer.
• To freeze, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, place the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water.
• Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or incorporate into salads, pastas, or soups for a quick and delicious meal.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the shrimp.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until heated through. This method is great for reheating larger batches.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method is quick and adds a touch of extra flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. This method is the fastest but may slightly alter the texture.

• Air fryer: A kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, perfect for achieving a crispy texture without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and toss the shrimp with the seasonings and olive oil.

• Tongs: A tool used to handle and place the shrimp into the air fryer basket without touching them directly.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the precise amounts of olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder.

• Lemon squeezer: A tool to extract fresh lemon juice easily and efficiently.

• Serving plate: A plate to serve the cooked shrimp immediately after they are done cooking.

• Shaking basket: The basket within the air fryer that holds the shrimp and needs to be shaken halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder in advance to save time.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Buy peeled and deveined shrimp to avoid the hassle of cleaning and prepping them yourself.

Preheat the air fryer: Start preheating the air fryer while you prepare the shrimp to cut down on waiting time.

Single layer cooking: Arrange shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and avoid having to cook multiple batches.

Quick shake: Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness without needing to flip each shrimp individually.