Air Fryer Peel and Eat Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen, shell-on shrimp are essential for this recipe to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful during cooking.

Olive oil: Used to coat the shrimp, helping the spices adhere and adding a rich flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic element to the shrimp.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the shrimp.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and the spices.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Lemon: Cut into wedges for serving, adding a fresh, zesty finish to the dish.

For optimal flavor, marinate the shrimp in the olive oil and spice mixture for at least 15 minutes before air frying. This allows the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to penetrate the shell-on shrimp, enhancing the overall taste.

• fresh or frozen shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative.

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

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile that works well with seafood.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat, which can enhance the flavor of the shrimp.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor, which can enhance the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but still provides the necessary heat.

• lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a similar acidic and citrusy flavor that complements seafood well.

• To store your air fryer peel and eat shrimp, first allow them to cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it's best to discard them.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents the shrimp from sticking together.
• Once the shrimp are frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of how long they've been stored.
• Frozen shrimp can be kept for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water until they are fully thawed.
• When reheating, use the air fryer to maintain their crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
• Serve the reheated shrimp with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy them just as you would when freshly cooked.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. The shrimp should be warmed through but not overcooked.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a small pat of butter. Once melted, add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Spread the shrimp out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the shrimp are warmed through.

• For a quick microwave method, place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish. Add a few drops of water or a light drizzle of olive oil to keep them moist. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a few holes poked in it. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• If you have a steamer, bring water to a boil in the bottom section. Place the shrimp in the steamer basket and cover. Steam for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the shrimp evenly and quickly at a high temperature.

• Large bowl: Used to toss the shrimp with olive oil and seasonings.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Tongs: Used to arrange the shrimp in the air fryer basket and to shake the basket halfway through cooking.

• Knife: Used to cut the lemon into wedges for serving.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the lemon.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the cooked shrimp with lemon wedges on the side.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while you prepare the shrimp to save time.

Use pre-mixed spices: Use a pre-mixed spice blend to quickly season the shrimp.

Buy deveined shrimp: Purchase deveined shrimp to cut down on prep time.

Line the basket: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of shrimp if needed, and keep the first batch warm in a low oven.