Seafood Air Fryer Recipe: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Way

Seafood lovers rejoice! Cooking seafood in an air fryer is an easy, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy your favorite dishes without the added fats and calories from frying in oil. Whether you’re craving crispy shrimp, perfectly cooked salmon, or tender scallops, an air fryer can deliver restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about making the perfect seafood air fryer recipe, including the nutritional benefits, ingredients, preparation, and cooking instructions.

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Introduction

Seafood is a rich source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Cooking it in an air fryer enhances its natural flavors while maintaining a crispy texture and juicy interior. The air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to mimic the effects of deep frying, but with significantly less oil. This makes it a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. The following seafood air fryer recipe is quick, easy, and suitable for a variety of cuisines, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

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Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.2g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 450mg

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4

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Ingredients

To make this seafood air fryer recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Seafood

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb (450g) salmon fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 lb (450g) sea scallops, patted dry

For the Marinade

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Silicone spatula
• Tongs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Seafood

• Rinse the shrimp, salmon, and scallops under cold water.
• Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and even cooking.

2. Make the Marinade

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Divide the marinade evenly into two bowls. One will be used for marinating, and the other for brushing the seafood during cooking.

3. Marinate the Seafood

• Place the shrimp, salmon, and scallops in a large bowl.
• Pour half of the marinade over the seafood and gently toss to coat.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the seafood marinate in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

5. Cook the Seafood

• Arrange the seafood in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space between pieces for even cooking.
• Brush the seafood lightly with the reserved marinade.
• Cook:
  • Shrimp: 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Salmon: 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Scallops: 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. Check for Doneness

• Shrimp should turn pink and opaque.
• Salmon should flake easily with a fork.
• Scallops should have a golden crust and remain tender inside.

7. Rest and Serve

• Allow the seafood to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

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Tips for Success

1. Pat Dry: Always pat the seafood dry before marinating to help the seasoning stick and ensure a crispy texture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
3. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (shrimp: 145°F, salmon: 145°F, scallops: 130°F).
4. Experiment with Spices: Customize the marinade with your favorite spices, like cayenne pepper or cumin, for a different flavor profile.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Seafood?

The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking seafood. Here’s why:

• Healthier Cooking: Uses little to no oil, reducing calories and fat content.
• Crispy Texture: Achieves the perfect balance of crispy exteriors and juicy interiors.
• Quick and Easy: Cuts down cooking time significantly compared to traditional methods.
• Versatility: Works for shrimp, salmon, scallops, and more, making it a versatile tool for seafood recipes.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your seafood air fryer recipe with these sides for a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or air-fried zucchini.
• Grains: Quinoa, wild rice, or couscous.
• Dips: Garlic aioli or tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

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Conclusion

Cooking seafood in an air fryer is an excellent way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. This seafood air fryer recipe is perfect for those looking to combine nutrition with convenience, making it ideal for busy households. With a little preparation and the right seasoning, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and satisfying. Try this recipe today and enjoy the benefits of air-fried seafood!