Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian dish that is loved by seafood enthusiasts all around the world. It is traditionally made by sautéing shrimp in a garlic butter sauce and served over pasta or with crusty bread. However, did you know that you can make this delectable dish in an air fryer? Yes, that’s right! Using an air fryer for making shrimp scampi not only saves time but also gives you a healthier version of the dish with the same amazing flavors. In this article, we will guide you through a quick and delicious recipe on how to make shrimp scampi in an air fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first gather all the ingredients required for making shrimp scampi in an air fryer. You will need the following:
– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley for garnish
Prepping the Shrimp
Start by prepping the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry using a paper towel. Make sure to remove the shells and the dark vein running along the back of each shrimp. Once the shrimp are cleaned, set them aside.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce
Now, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter sauce for the shrimp scampi. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, add the olive oil, minced garlic, white wine (if using), lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
Cooking the Shrimp Scampi in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a couple of minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, place the cleaned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated.
Place the shrimp-filled basket in the air fryer and cook for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque when they are cooked through.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer. Be cautious as the basket and shrimp will be hot. Let the shrimp rest for a minute before serving.
Serving and Enjoying the Shrimp Scampi
To serve the shrimp scampi, you can either enjoy them as is or serve them over pasta or with crusty bread. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for an added burst of freshness and color. The rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce combined with the perfectly cooked shrimp will surely delight your taste buds.
Remember, the shrimp scampi prepared in an air fryer is not only quick and easy but also a healthier alternative to the traditional sautéed version. The air fryer uses minimal oil, infusing the shrimp with a satisfying crispness while retaining their juiciness.
Experimenting with Flavors
While the basic shrimp scampi recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and additions. You can add some diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes to the garlic butter sauce for a tangy twist. Alternatively, you can toss in some sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to add a hint of earthiness to the dish. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
In conclusion, making shrimp scampi in an air fryer is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your seafood cravings. This recipe allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of shrimp scampi with a healthier twist. By using the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly cooked shrimp with a delightful crispiness, all while reducing the amount of oil used in traditional methods.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a seafood delight, give this air fryer shrimp scampi recipe a try. Impress your family and friends with its simplicity and deliciousness. Happy cooking!