Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Skewers are a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and peppery flavors. These air-fried shrimp skewers are juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with vibrant citrusy notes. A quick and healthy appetizer or main dish, they’re ideal for entertaining or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and salt.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small gap between them for even cooking.
- Air Fry the Shrimp Skewers:
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred on the edges.
- Serve:
- Remove the skewers from the air fryer and garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
Serves
- Serves 4 people as an appetizer or 2 people as a main course.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate for 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
Key Notes
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Even Cooking: Ensure shrimp are of similar size for consistent cooking.
- Additional Spice: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side salad, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer for best results.
This quick and easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party starter! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations. 😊