Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large (16/20 count) raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp (pat dry)
  • 1 medium Red Onion, roughly chopped (6 oz)
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, roughly chopped (6 oz)
  • 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, roughly chopped (6 oz)
  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • ½ Lemon, freshly squeezed, plus a little zest
  • ¾ tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • ½ tsp Dried Thyme
  • ½ tsp Onion Powder
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper
  • ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Pat the shrimp extremely dry using kitchen paper—this is crucial for a good sear. Chop the onions and bell peppers into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
  2. Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine all the dry seasoning ingredients (salt, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, onion powder, pepper, and cayenne). Mix well until uniform.
  3. Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes.
  4. Season the Veggies: Place the chopped peppers and onions in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of olive oil and sprinkle with about two-thirds (2/3) of the seasoning mix. Toss thoroughly to coat.
  5. Start the Veggies: Transfer the seasoned vegetables to the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd). Air fry the vegetables for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Shake the basket halfway through.
  6. Season the Shrimp: While the vegetables are cooking, place the dried shrimp in the second mixing bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of olive oil and the remaining one-third (1/3) of the seasoning mix. Toss until every shrimp is coated.
  7. Add the Shrimp: After the initial 5 minutes, pull the basket out. Add the seasoned shrimp directly on top of the par-cooked vegetables. Give the basket a quick shake to combine slightly.
  8. Finish Cooking: Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. The shrimp are ready when they curl into a ‘C’ shape and turn opaque pink.
  9. Serve: Transfer the Cajun shrimp and veggies immediately to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and grate a touch of zest for brightness.