Best Air Fried Shrimp Fajitas Recipes

Air frying has become one of the most preferred cooking methods in recent times due to its health benefits. It allows you to cook using little or no oil, reducing the number of calories consumed. One of the popular air fried recipes that have gained traction is the air fried shrimp fajitas.

What are shrimp fajitas?

Fajitas are a Tex-Mex cuisine that involves grilling steak, chicken or shrimp and serving them with tortilla wraps. Shrimp fajitas feature grilled or sautéed shrimp, onions, and bell peppers, with seasonings such as chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika.

The air frying method

Air frying takes the traditional method of deep-frying food and replaces it with a smaller amount of oil that is circulated through the air fryer, providing the same crispy texture as deep-frying. Air frying shrimp fajitas is a healthier alternative to traditional frying or grilling.

Ingredients for air fried shrimp fajitas

• 1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tsp. of garlic powder
• 1 tsp. of chili powder
• 1 tsp. of cumin powder
• 1 tsp. of smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. of salt
• 1/4 tsp. of black pepper
• 1 tbsp. of olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, chili powder, cumin powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Put the sliced bell peppers and onions in the air fryer basket, and sprinkle them with the spice mixture. Toss the vegetables with olive oil.
4. Cook the vegetables for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the shrimp to the basket and toss it with the vegetables and seasonings.
6. Cook the shrimp and vegetables for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and no longer translucent.
7. Remove the shrimp fajitas from the air fryer and serve with tortilla wraps, lettuce, and your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Conclusion

Air fried shrimp fajitas are a healthier and delicious alternative to traditional shrimp fajitas. Using an air fryer to cook the shrimp and vegetables with fewer amounts of oil will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing the taste. This simple recipe is a game-changer as it offers a blend of flavors and spices that are perfect for any gathering or family dinner.

Fajitas are a popular dish that originated in Tex-Mex cuisine. They consist of sizzling grilled meat, vegetables, and spices served with warm tortillas. Air fried shrimp fajitas recipes are a healthier version of the traditional fajitas. They are quick and easy to prepare and require no oil, making them a great option for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty meal.

Choosing the right shrimp

Not all shrimp are created equal, and it is important to choose the right type of shrimp for your fajitas. Fresh, wild-caught shrimp is the best option if you can find it. Fresh shrimp should have a firm texture, a mild seawater smell, and a slightly translucent appearance. Avoid shrimp that looks discolored or has a slimy texture. You can also use frozen shrimp, but make sure it is thawed properly before cooking.

Preparing the shrimp

Before cooking, you need to prepare the shrimp. Start by cleaning the shrimp in cold water and removing the shell and tail. You can leave the tail on for presentation, but it is not necessary. After cleaning, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove any excess water. This will help the seasoning to stick to the shrimp when cooking.

Seasoning the shrimp

Seasoning is the key to achieving flavorful shrimp fajitas. The best way to season your shrimp is to prepare a spice blend. You can use a pre-made spice blend or create your own. Some essential ingredients for a spice blend include chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Mix the spices in a bowl and then gently toss the shrimp in the spice mixture to coat evenly. Let the shrimp sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Choosing the right vegetables

Vegetables are the other essential ingredient in fajitas. The most common vegetables used in fajitas include bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. You can also include other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and corn. It is important to choose vegetables that will cook evenly and hold up well in the air fryer. Cut the vegetables into small pieces or thin strips to ensure they cook evenly.

Preparing the vegetables

Before cooking, you need to prepare the vegetables. Start by washing them and then remove the seeds and membranes from the bell peppers. Cut the vegetables into thin strips or small pieces. This will help them cook evenly in the air fryer. You can also season the vegetables with a separate blend of spices if desired.

Cooking the shrimp and vegetables

To cook the shrimp and vegetables, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Once the air fryer is hot, place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked through and slightly browned. Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and set it aside. Next, add the vegetables to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the shrimp back to the air fryer basket for 1-2 minutes to reheat.

Assembling the fajitas

To assemble the fajitas, warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet. Add the cooked shrimp and vegetables to the tortilla and top with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese. Fold the tortilla over and serve.

Conclusion

Air fried shrimp fajitas are a delicious and healthy meal that can be prepared in minutes. Choosing the right shrimp, seasoning the shrimp and vegetables, and cooking them properly are essential steps to creating a flavorful dish. Assembling the fajitas with your favorite toppings is a great way to add additional flavor and texture. Follow these tips, and you will have a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed any time.