Name: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 250 g shrimp (peeled and deveined, pat dry with paper towels); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon honey; 3 dashes cayenne pepper; 1 pinch salt (or to taste); Chopped parsley (for garnishing); Lemon wedges (for serving)

There’s something truly magical about the combination of honey and garlic, especially when paired with succulent shrimp. This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is your new go-to for a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer. Not only do you get the delightful sweetness of honey and the savory kick of garlic, but cooking it in the air fryer means it’s ready in no time with less mess than traditional frying methods. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

The Upside of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp

Cooking shrimp in the air fryer is a game changer for several reasons:

Quick Cooking: Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Less Oil: Air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying, so you can enjoy a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is easy to clean, and you won’t have to deal with splattered oil all over your kitchen.
Flavorful Results: The high heat of the air fryer caramelizes the honey, creating a beautifully glazed shrimp that’s packed with flavor.

What Goes In

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

250g peeled and deveined shrimp, pat dry with paper towels
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon honey
3 dashes cayenne pepper
1 pinch salt, or to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnishing
Lemon wedges, for serving

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before we start cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools:

Air Fryer: The star of the show that will make your shrimp crispy and delicious.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the shrimp with the marinade.
Measuring Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of oil, honey, and spices.
Spatula or Tongs: For flipping the shrimp halfway through cooking.
Serving Plate: To present your beautiful dish.

Method: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp

Follow these simple steps to create your Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This is an important step to ensure they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, honey, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Add the dried shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the shrimp is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your shrimp will cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent them from cooking evenly. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the shrimp are cooked through and slightly caramelized, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that refreshing zing.

Make It Your Way

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences:

Add More Spice: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Mix in Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.
Swap the Sweetener: Use maple syrup or agave syrup if you prefer a different sweetness profile.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique twist.

Cook’s Notes

For the best results, make sure your shrimp are fresh and not previously frozen. Fresh shrimp will give you a better texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the honey.
Always monitor your shrimp closely as cooking times may vary based on the size of the shrimp and the air fryer model.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is rare since these are so delicious!), allow them to cool completely before storing. Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp?

This dish goes well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl slightly as they cook. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent proper cooking. You may need to cook them in batches.

See You at the Table

With its sweet and savory profile, Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a relaxed evening at home. Grab your air fryer and get ready to savor every bite of this delightful shrimp dish! Enjoy the symphony of flavors, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!