Shrimp Shawarma Air Fryer Recipe: A Flavorful and Healthy Delight

Are you craving a dish that’s flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! The Shrimp Shawarma Air Fryer Recipe is a modern twist on the Middle Eastern classic, featuring tender shrimp marinated in aromatic spices and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.

Not only is this recipe packed with bold flavors, but it’s also healthy and low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. With minimal prep and cook time, the air fryer ensures you enjoy a crispy, juicy texture without the need for excessive oil. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to prepare this mouthwatering recipe!

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Nutrition Overview

This Shrimp Shawarma Air Fryer Recipe is high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for those following a balanced diet or looking for a keto-friendly option. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition per serving:

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Recipe Details

• Cuisines: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
• Course: Appetizer, Main Course
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 8 minutes
• Resting Time: 20 minutes (marination)
• Total Time: 38 minutes

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Equipment

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

1. Air fryer
2. Mixing bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Silicone brush (optional)
5. Tongs

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving (Optional):

• Warm pita bread
• Hummus or garlic sauce
• Pickled vegetables (like turnips or cucumbers)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl.

2. Make the Shawarma Marinade

• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add lemon juice and whisk to combine.

3. Marinate the Shrimp

• Pour the marinade over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.

5. Cook the Shrimp

• Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a cooking spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
• Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with warm pita, a dollop of hummus or garlic sauce, and your favorite pickled vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before marinating.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.
3. Adjust the Spices: Customize the spice level to suit your taste by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
4. Serve Immediately: Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while still warm and juicy.

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Why Choose an Air Fryer for Shawarma?

Cooking shrimp in an air fryer offers a host of benefits:

• Healthier Option: The air fryer requires little to no oil, reducing the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.
• Quick Cooking: Shrimp cook in just a few minutes, making this a fast and convenient recipe.
• Perfect Texture: The air fryer ensures the shrimp are juicy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, mimicking the texture of traditional shawarma cooked on a spit.

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Customizations

1. Vegetarian Version: Swap the shrimp for firm tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
2. Different Proteins: This marinade works well with chicken, beef, or lamb if you want to try different variations.
3. Low-Carb Option: Skip the pita and serve the shrimp on a bed of mixed greens or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

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Conclusion

The Shrimp Shawarma Air Fryer Recipe is a true winner when it comes to combining ease, flavor, and nutrition. With its bold Middle Eastern spices, tender shrimp, and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served as a light appetizer or a hearty main course, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So dust off your air fryer and get ready to savor this irresistible dish today!