Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal that doesn't require hours of slaving over the stove? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! With its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, the air fryer is the perfect kitchen appliance for busy individuals who want to eat well without sacrificing taste. In this article, we'll explore a delicious and carb - smart recipe for shrimp and vegetables that you can whip up in your air fryer with little fuss.

First things first, let's gather the ingredients. You'll need fresh shrimp, a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season. For example, if you love broccoli, throw some florets in. If you're a fan of mushrooms, they'll make a great addition too.

Start by preparing the shrimp. Peel and devein them, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Drying the shrimp is crucial as it helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a crispy exterior when cooked. Place the shrimp in a bowl and drizzle a little olive oil over them. Sprinkle some garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently toss the shrimp, making sure they're evenly coated with the seasonings. Set the seasoned shrimp aside for now.

Next, it's time to prep the vegetables. Wash them thoroughly and cut them into bite - sized pieces. You want the pieces to be relatively uniform in size so that they cook evenly in the air fryer. Place the cut vegetables in a separate bowl and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Just like with the shrimp, sprinkle some garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and toss them well. The seasonings will bring out the natural flavors of the veggies and give them a delicious kick.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important as it ensures that the food starts cooking immediately once it's placed inside, resulting in a better texture and flavor. Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the vegetables for about 8 - 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. This will help ensure that all sides of the vegetables get cooked evenly.

After the vegetables have cooked for 8 - 10 minutes, it's time to add the shrimp. Gently place the seasoned shrimp on top of the vegetables in the air fryer basket. Make sure there's enough space between the shrimp so that they can cook properly. Cook the shrimp and vegetables together for an additional 5 - 7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the vegetables are tender - crisp. You can check the doneness of the shrimp by cutting one in half; if it's white all the way through, it's ready.

Once the cooking is done, carefully remove the air fryer basket and transfer the cooked shrimp and vegetables to a serving plate. You can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor. This air - fried shrimp and vegetable meal is not only delicious but also balanced and carb - smart. The shrimp are a great source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

You can enjoy this meal on its own as a light lunch or dinner, or pair it with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the air fryer the next day for a quick and tasty meal. So, the next time you're short on time but still want to eat a healthy and delicious meal, fire up your air fryer and give this shrimp and vegetable recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!