Air Fryer Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Air fryer Hawaiian garlic shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of tropical paradise to your table. This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a hint of island-inspired sweetness. Perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even served over rice, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes, thanks to the air fryer.
• Bursting with Flavor: Combines buttery garlic goodness with a subtle sweetness.
• Healthier Alternative: Uses less oil compared to traditional frying.
• Versatile: Perfect for appetizers, meal prep, or pairing with rice and veggies.
• Tropical Flair: Brings a taste of Hawaii to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Garlic, minced
• Butter, melted
• Olive oil
• Soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Lemon juice
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Air Fry the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with rice, salad, or your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade for some heat.
• Pineapple Twist: Toss in pineapple chunks with the shrimp for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Coconut Garlic Shrimp: Substitute some of the butter with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Herbed Garlic Shrimp: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a subtle herbal note.
• Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based butter and substitute shrimp with tofu or cauliflower for a vegan option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
• Freezing: While fresh shrimp are best, you can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before marinating.

2. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a perfect texture.

3. How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil before adding the shrimp.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

5. What can I serve with Hawaiian garlic shrimp?

Serve with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but you may need to add a pinch of salt to the marinade.

7. Can I make this recipe without honey or sugar?

Yes, but the sweetness balances the garlic and soy sauce. You can skip it or use a sugar-free alternative.

8. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

9. Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Yes, chicken, tofu, or scallops work well with the same marinade.

10. Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Air fryer Hawaiian garlic shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a taste of the tropics with minimal effort. The buttery garlic marinade pairs perfectly with the juicy shrimp, making it an irresistible option for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of Hawaii right from your kitchen!

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