If you’re a fan of tacos and looking to indulge in a healthier alternative, then prepare to be blown away by the deliciousness of Air Fried Shrimp Tacos. This recipe takes the classic shrimp taco and elevates it to a whole new level with the magic of the air fryer. The result is perfectly crispy shrimp that’s packed with flavor, paired with your favorite taco toppings. Get ready to savor the irresistible combination of succulent shrimp, tangy salsa, creamy avocado, and crunchy lettuce, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering taco feast that’s both easy to make and guilt-free. It’s time to take your taco game to new heights with Air Fried Shrimp Tacos!
Ingredients
To make delicious air fried shrimp tacos, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup of shredded lettuce
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
- 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges for garnish
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream, and hot sauce
Preparation
Before we dive into the cooking process, we need to marinate the shrimp, prepare the taco shells, and chop the ingredients.
Marinating the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to permeate.
Preparing the Taco Shells
Place the small flour tortillas in the air fryer, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook them in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove the taco shells from the air fryer and set them aside for later use.
Chopping the Ingredients
While the taco shells are cooking, you can prepare the toppings for your shrimp tacos. Start by shredding the lettuce, dicing the tomatoes, and chopping the red onion and cilantro. You can also slice some avocado and set it aside if you prefer to use it as a topping.
Cooking the Shrimp
Now that we have prepped our ingredients, it’s time to cook the marinated shrimp in the air fryer.
Coating the Shrimp
Remove the marinated shrimp from the bowl and shake off any excess marinade. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
Air Frying the Shrimp
Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the shrimp for 5-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are pink and cooked through. The air frying method will give you perfectly crispy shrimp without the need for deep frying.
Assembling the Tacos
Now that the shrimp is cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble our mouthwatering shrimp tacos.
Layering the Taco Shells
Take one of the crispy taco shells and begin by layering a bed of shredded lettuce on the bottom. This will provide a crunchy base for your taco.
Adding the Shrimp
Next, place a few pieces of the air fried shrimp on top of the lettuce. Feel free to add as much or as little shrimp as you prefer.
Adding the Toppings
To add a burst of flavors and textures, top the shrimp with diced tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro. For an extra kick, you can also include sliced avocado and a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Once you have assembled your air fried shrimp tacos, it’s time to think about serving them with some delicious sides and garnishing options.
Serving with Sides
You can serve your shrimp tacos with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Some popular options include Mexican rice, refried beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. These sides will complement the flavors of the tacos and provide a well-rounded dining experience.
Garnishing
To add a final touch of freshness and tanginess, garnish your shrimp tacos with lime wedges. Squeezing some fresh lime juice over the tacos just before serving will enhance the flavors and bring everything together.
Variations
If you’re looking to spice things up or try something different, there are a couple of variations you can explore when making air fried shrimp tacos.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
For those who love a spicy kick, you can add some additional heat to your shrimp tacos. Simply increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also include chopped jalapenos as a topping for an extra spicy bite.
Baja Shrimp Tacos
To give your shrimp tacos a Baja-inspired twist, you can opt for a different flavor profile. Instead of the paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder, season your shrimp with lime juice, garlic, and a blend of Mexican spices like oregano, coriander, and smoked paprika. This will give your tacos a tangy and smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional Baja cuisine.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure the best results when making air fried shrimp tacos, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind.
Using Fresh Shrimp
Fresh shrimp will yield the most flavorful and tender results. If possible, opt for fresh shrimp instead of frozen. Look for shrimp that has a firm texture, a pleasant smell, and a glossy appearance. Fresh shrimp will cook more evenly and deliver a better overall taste.
Adjusting Cook Time
The cooking time for the shrimp may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and the power of your air fryer. Keep an eye on the shrimp while they’re cooking and adjust the cook time accordingly. Overcooking the shrimp can result in a rubbery and less enjoyable texture, so aim to cook them until they are just pink and opaque.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about air fried shrimp tacos.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
While fresh shrimp is recommended for the best results, you can also use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and cooking. Frozen shrimp may require a slightly longer cooking time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How long do the shrimp tacos stay crispy?
The taco shells will stay crispy for a short period of time after being cooked. To enjoy the tacos at their best, it is recommended to assemble them just before serving. If you prefer to prepare the components in advance, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can easily whip up a batch of delicious air fried shrimp tacos in no time. The marinade will infuse the shrimp with a burst of flavor, while the air frying method will give you perfectly crispy shrimp without the need for deep frying. Top them with your favorite toppings, serve with some complementary sides, and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and start creating these flavorful shrimp tacos today!
