Some evenings just demand something fast but satisfying, and this air fryer shrimp and asparagus recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s one of those meals you can throw together when you’re juggling a million things and still want to sit down to something that feels fresh and bright.
I remember the first time I tried it—midweek, after a day that had slipped away in a blur of meetings and errands. I was eyeing the clock, wondering if I’d have time to cook at all. The air fryer was humming in the background, and the aroma of garlic mixed with lemon was already teasing my senses. The shrimp came out tender, with just enough snap from the asparagus to remind me that fast food doesn’t have to mean dull. I almost forgot to take a picture because I dove right in, but that’s the kind of meal that doesn’t wait.
- Quick turnaround: ready in under 20 minutes, great for busy nights.
- Bright, fresh flavors from lemon and garlic—simple but never boring.
- The air fryer makes cleanup way less of a chore, though you do get some smoky paprika notes that sneak in quietly.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or fancy tools needed.
- Just two servings, so it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a lunch that feels special.
If you’re worried about overcooking, don’t be. The shrimp stay juicy and the asparagus crisp, even if you’re a bit distracted by texts or a podcast episode. It’s forgiving in a way that makes it a great go-to.
PrintAir Fryer Shrimp and Asparagus
A quick and healthy air fryer recipe featuring tender shrimp and crisp asparagus, seasoned with garlic and lemon for a flavorful meal ready in under 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2
Ingredients
12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, asparagus pieces, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss well to coat evenly.
Place the shrimp and asparagus mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
Cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping.
Remove the shrimp and asparagus from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish.
Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with lemon zest. Toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately.
Don’t stress about fancy gadgets here; a reliable air fryer is all you need. I usually serve this with a side of crusty bread or toss it over rice when I want something heartier but haven’t tested every combo out there. Sometimes I swap smoked paprika for a pinch of cayenne for a little extra heat, but honestly, it’s just as good as is. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a nice touch, although I often skip that step if I’m in a rush.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but thaw them fully and pat dry for best results. Frozen shrimp might release extra moisture, so keep an eye on cooking times.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? You could try roasting in a hot oven, but the texture will be a bit different—less crisp on the asparagus.
Can I double the recipe? You can, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
When you want a meal that’s quick, fresh, and just a little bit special, this shrimp and asparagus combo is ready to answer the call. Save it, print it, and keep it handy—you’ll find yourself coming back to it more than you expect.