Shrimp skewers are a quick and versatile seafood option perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.
Using an air fryer speeds up cooking and ensures the shrimp are tender with a deliciously crisp edge without extra oil.
This recipe features fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs for bright, vibrant flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The air fryer cooks shrimp quickly and evenly, locking in moisture and achieving a slight crisp without deep frying.
- Marinating the shrimp in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs infuses them with fresh flavors in under 15 minutes.
- Skewering the shrimp keeps them turnable for even cooking and easy serving.
Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers
Quick and flavorful shrimp skewers with lemon, garlic, and herbs cooked perfectly in the air fryer for a healthy and delicious seafood dish.
- Prep time
- 10 minutes
- Cook time
- 6 minutes
- Servings
- 4
- Yield
- 12 shrimp skewers
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 36 shrimp; 680 g)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 metal or soaked wooden skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade and shrimp In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes, no longer than 15 minutes to keep shrimp fresh.
- Assemble the skewers Thread 3 shrimp per skewer, piercing once near the tail and once near the head to secure. Discard any excess marinade.
- Cook in the air fryer Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes. Place shrimp skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until shrimp are opaque and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve Remove the shrimp skewers from the air fryer and let rest for 1 minute. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
Helpful Tips
- For even cooking, use similar-sized medium shrimp.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning in the air fryer.
- Do not over-marinate the shrimp to avoid a mushy texture—10 to 15 minutes is ideal.
- Shrimp cook quickly; watch closely to prevent overcooking which causes toughness.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store cooked shrimp skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes to avoid drying out.
Do not freeze cooked shrimp skewers as texture may degrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat dry the shrimp before marinating to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.
Can I prepare the shrimp skewers ahead of time?
You can marinate shrimp up to 1 hour ahead, but it’s best to thread skewers and air fry just before serving for optimal texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
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