Looking to impress at your next meal? My Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Shrimp Skewers are a flavorful delight! With juicy shrimp and zesty lemon, they cook quickly and taste amazing. This easy recipe is perfect for any night or gathering. I’ll walk you through each step, from prepping ingredients to serving. Let’s get started on making a dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
Key Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice. It works well but may not taste as bright. For olive oil, canola or avocado oil is a good swap. If you want a twist, try lime juice instead of lemon juice. For those who don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can work too. It won’t have the same smoky flavor, but it will still taste great. If you need a gluten-free option, check that your seasonings are gluten-free.
Optional Garnishes
Garnishing makes your dish pop. Fresh parsley adds color and flavor. You can also use lemon wedges for a zesty touch. A sprinkle of chili flakes on top gives a nice kick. If you want a creamier bite, serve with a yogurt dip or a drizzle of tahini. These extras can elevate your dish and impress your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Wooden Skewers
If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This step helps prevent burning in the air fryer. While they soak, you can prepare the shrimp and marinade. If you use metal skewers, you can skip this step.
Marinating the Shrimp
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Whisk the ingredients until they blend well. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade until they are fully coated. Let the shrimp sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. This helps the shrimp absorb all the great flavors.
Air Frying Process
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, thread 4-5 shrimp on each skewer. Place the shrimp skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry the shrimp for 6-8 minutes. Flip them halfway for even cooking. The shrimp should be pink and cooked through. Once done, remove the skewers from the air fryer. Let them rest for a minute. Garnish the skewers with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
To make sure your shrimp are just right, look for a few signs. First, they should be pink and opaque. Also, they should curl slightly as they cook. Avoid overcooking, as this makes shrimp tough. A cooking time of 6-8 minutes usually works well. Flip the skewers halfway through to cook evenly. If you have a food thermometer, shrimp should reach 120°F internally.
Marinade Variations
While lemon pepper is fantastic, feel free to play with flavors. Try adding some honey for sweetness. A splash of soy sauce can give it an umami boost. You might also enjoy fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a different taste. If you love spice, add more red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.
Air Fryer Cooking Tips
To get the best results in your air fryer, preheat it for 5 minutes at 400°F. This helps the shrimp cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if needed. This ensures hot air circulates well around the shrimp. Always check for doneness, as air fryers can vary in power.

Variations
Adding Vegetables to Skewers
You can make your shrimp skewers even better by adding veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes work well. They add color and taste. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. Mix them with the shrimp in your marinade. This not only adds nutrition but also makes your skewers more fun and colorful.
Different Marinade Flavors
While lemon pepper is great, you can try other flavors too. Use teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist. Or mix soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an Asian flair. You can even use a spicy marinade with sriracha or chipotle. Play around with these flavors to find what you love. Each will give your shrimp a new and exciting taste.
Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options
If you need gluten-free or low-carb options, it’s simple! Stick to the base recipe, as shrimp and most spices are naturally gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce if you try a different marinade. For low-carb, focus on veggies instead of rice or bread. Load your skewers with shrimp and colorful vegetables for a healthy meal that fits your needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container. This helps keep the shrimp from becoming soggy.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the shrimp, use your air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers in the basket and heat for about 3-4 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp tender and juicy. You can also use a microwave, but this may make the shrimp less crisp.
Freezing Shrimp Skewers
If you want to freeze the skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the marinade stick better.
How long should I marinate the shrimp?
I recommend marinating the shrimp for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the shrimp soak up the flavors. For a stronger taste, you can marinate for up to 30 minutes. Just don’t marinate too long, or the shrimp may get mushy.
What are the best side dishes to serve with lemon pepper shrimp skewers?
You can pair lemon pepper shrimp skewers with many great sides. Here are some ideas:
– Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice works well.
– Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch.
– Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies are perfect.
– Pasta: Lemon garlic pasta is a nice choice.
– Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up juices.
These sides will complement your shrimp skewers perfectly!
This article covered everything you need for shrimp skewers. You learned about key ingredients and tasty substitutes. We explored easy steps to prepare and air fry the shrimp. I shared helpful tips for perfect cooking and fun variations. Finally, I provided storage tricks to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy crafting these delicious skewers anytime. With practice, you’ll impress anyone with this dish. Trust your skills, and have fun cooking!


