Ingredients:

  • 500 g (approx. 1 lb) Large Shrimp (Prawns), 16/20 count preferred, peeled and deveined, thawed
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Olive Oil (or melted unsalted butter)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Dried Thyme
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Kosher Salt (or ½ tsp fine sea salt)
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) Cayenne Pepper (adjust to desired heat level)
  • 1 large Lemon, zested and cut into wedges
  • 2 Tbsp (30 ml) Fresh Parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Shrimp: Thaw the shrimp completely if frozen. Pat the shrimp aggressively dry using paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness in the air fryer.
  2. Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the Cajun Spice Rub (Smoked Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne).
  3. Dress the Shrimp: Place the dried shrimp in the large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil or melted butter and toss to ensure everything is lightly coated.
  4. Season: Sprinkle the Cajun Spice Rub evenly over the oiled shrimp. Toss thoroughly until every piece is coated in the seasoning. Add the lemon zest and toss once more.
  5. Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for at least 3-5 minutes. Preheating guarantees a better texture.
  6. Arrange: Place the seasoned shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary; do not overcrowd.
  7. Cook: Cook for 4 minutes, then open the basket, toss the shrimp using tongs, and return for another 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are bright pink and fully opaque.
  8. Test for Doneness: The total cooking time should be 7-9 minutes. Do not overcook—overcooked shrimp is rubbery.
  9. Serve: Transfer the shrimp immediately to a serving platter. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.