That sounds like a delicious and healthy meal idea! Air fryers are a convenient way to cook a variety of dishes quickly and with less oil. Here’s a simple recipe for Air Fryer Shrimp & Vegetables:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for some heat
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, bell peppers, and onions. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the shrimp and vegetables, and toss to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned shrimp and vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred at the edges. Shake the basket or flip the shrimp and vegetables halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp and vegetables from the air fryer and garnish with red pepper flakes and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the Air Fryer Shrimp & Vegetables over cooked rice for a complete meal.
This recipe is not only quick and easy but also customizable. You can add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to suit your preferences. Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried dinner!
Tips:
- Marinating the Shrimp: For even more flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in the spice mixture for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp more deeply.
- Doneness of Shrimp: Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to a tough and rubbery texture. They should be pink and opaque.
- Spacing in the Air Fryer: Ensure the shrimp and vegetables are spread out in a single layer with some space between them. This allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some cayenne pepper.
- Serving Suggestions: Besides rice, you can serve this dish over quinoa, couscous, or even a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb option.
Variations:
- Add a Citrus Zest: Consider adding a bit of lemon or lime zest to the spice mixture for a citrusy kick.
- Soy-Ginger Glaze: Create a simple glaze using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. Toss the cooked shrimp and vegetables in the glaze for extra flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Add some fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can try this recipe with chunks of chicken, tofu, or even salmon.
- Sauce Options: Serve with a side of your favorite sauce or dip, like a sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a garlic aioli.
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste preferences. Cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you enjoy the most!
