Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp (or prawns)

For Mexican Style

• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Indian Style

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp: Buying shrimp that is already peeled and deveined saves precious prep time. If using prawns, ensure they’re similar in size for even cooking.
• Olive Oil: This helps the seasonings adhere to the shrimp as they cook.
• Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil. For Mexican style, add taco seasoning and salt. For Indian style, add cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili, and salt. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If using frozen shrimp, adjust your cooking time slightly longer as detailed later on.

Cooking Instructions

1. Add the shrimp in a single layer to the preheated air fryer basket.
2. Cook for about 8 minutes, turning the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for the shrimp to turn opaque.
3. Be cautious not to overcrowd the basket; if needed, cook in batches.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, serve your air fryer shrimp immediately. Enjoy them in tacos, over rice, or as a delicious topping for salads!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

1. The air fryer method is almost hands-off—perfect for busy weeknights!
2. Healthier than traditional fried shrimp, you’ll achieve great results with minimal oil.
3. Flavorful additions to your side dishes, the shrimp enhances various meals.
4. Cooking from frozen is easy and quick, making last-minute dinners a breeze.

Tips for Cooking with Frozen Shrimp

If you’re starting with frozen shrimp, it’s best to let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Alternatively, place them in a bowl of cool water for about 15-20 minutes. Before seasoning, make sure to pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure spices adhere properly.

Variations to Try

• Breaded Shrimp: Coat your shrimp in egg and then roll in Panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
• Coconut Shrimp: For a tropical twist, dip your shrimp in shredded coconut after the egg wash.
• Garlic Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of garlic powder along with the olive oil for an aromatic delight.

How to Prep Ahead

If you’d like to get a head-start on your meal prep, combine the olive oil and seasonings with shrimp and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This can be done 1-2 days in advance for quick cooking later. You can also cook the shrimp beforehand; just ensure they are tightly covered in the fridge and reheated in the air fryer before serving.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Let cooked shrimp cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. They will keep for 3-4 days.

Freezer: If storing leftovers, consider freezing for up to 2 months in an airtight bag or container; just make sure to remove excess air before sealing.

Reheating: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to cook shrimp in the air fryer?

Cooking shrimp at 400°F takes roughly 8 minutes, but smaller shrimp will cook faster while larger shrimp may require a bit more time.

2. Should I thaw shrimp before cooking?

It’s not necessary to thaw shrimp before air frying, but for better seasoning adhesion, thawing and patting dry beforehand is recommended.

3. How can I tell when shrimp are cooked?

Look for shrimp to turn opaque; this indicates they are fully cooked. If in doubt, using a food thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 120°F is a good practice.

4. Can I use shrimp with tails on?

Yes! Whole shrimp with tails can be left on, especially if serving as appetizers, but for a simpler dining experience, removing the tails is advised.

5. What side dishes pair well with air fryer shrimp?

Shrimp complements a variety of sides such as basmati rice, roasted vegetables, and salads. Try pairing with lemon rice or air fryer broccoli for an easy, delicious meal.