Air Fryer Shrimp And Peppers

This air fryer shrimp and peppers dish offers a quick and flavorful dinner with tender jumbo shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and a creamy coconut curry sauce that sings with fresh garlic, ginger, and a bright touch of lime zest. Paired with fluffy cilantro lime jasmine rice, it brings together vibrant Thai and Indianinspired flavors into an easy meal perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.

I remember making this recipe for friends after a particularly stressful day and hearing nothing but praise for how flavorful and quick it was. It’s become a favorite when I want a dinner that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Jasmine rice: Jasmine rice offers a fragrant and fluffy base that soaks up all the sauce beautifully. Use high quality long grain rice for the best texture
• Fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds vibrant color. Look for bunches with fresh smell and plenty of leaves
• Kosher salt: Kosher salt enhances every flavor layer gently without overpowering. Coarse salt can dissolve nicely into the rice and sauce
• Lime juice and zest: Lime juice and zest bring fresh tang and uplift every bite. Always use fresh limes for maximum brightness
• Jumbo shrimp: Jumbo shrimp serve as the main protein star. Choose size U 12 to 15 for plump, meaty pieces
• Olive oil: Olive oil adds mild richness and helps coat shrimp and vegetables evenly for roasting
• Blackened seasoning: Blackened seasoning introduces smoky heat and depth. Pick blends low in salt so you can control seasoning balance
• Bell peppers: Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and a pleasant crunch. Select firm peppers with shiny skins for freshness
• White onion: White onion provides savory depth and cooks quickly when sliced thin
• Full fat coconut milk: Full fat coconut milk creates the silky, rich curry sauce. Shake the can well before opening to mix separated fats
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch thickens the sauce to a smooth, creamy consistency
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil enhances the coconut flavor and is ideal for sautéing aromatics
• Fresh garlic and ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger bring powerful fragrant punch. Grate ginger finely for even heat distribution
• Red curry paste: Red curry paste forms the bold flavor base of the sauce. Adjust spice level by checking labels
• Fish sauce: Fish sauce adds savory umami but is optional. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish
• Chili powder and ground cloves: Chili powder and ground cloves add warm complexity

Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Prepare jasmine rice following package instructions to achieve fluffy, light grains. Once cooked, gently fold in chopped fresh cilantro, kosher salt, and fresh lime juice plus zest. This brightens and layers in fresh flavors.

Prep the Shrimp and Vegetables:

In a large bowl, combine peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp with olive oil and blackened seasoning. Add thinly sliced bell peppers and white onions. Toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with oil and spices to maximize flavor.

Air Fry the Shrimp and Veggies:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Arrange the shrimp and vegetable mixture in a single layer in the basket to allow crisping rather than steaming. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and firm with pink flesh and peppers show slight charring.

Make the Coconut Curry Sauce:

Whisk full fat coconut milk and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth. Heat coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for one to two minutes until fragrant. Stir in red curry paste and let it bloom for one minute to deepen aroma. Gradually whisk in the coconut milk mixture, cooking while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about one to two minutes. Add lime juice and zest, fish sauce if using, chili powder, ground cloves, and kosher salt. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer gently for five to ten minutes until thick and fragrant.

Plate and Serve:

Divide the cilantro lime rice among serving bowls. Top with a generous portion of air fried shrimp and peppers. Spoon creamy coconut curry sauce over the top and garnish with extra fresh cilantro for bright color and fresh flavor.

My daughter loves helping zest the lime, and the whole kitchen fills with amazing aromas making it a memorable family moment.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best texture, keep rice and curry sauce separate from shrimp and vegetables. Reheat gently on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave to avoid sauce curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Jasmine rice can be swapped for basmati or brown rice depending on your preference. Bell peppers may be replaced with zucchini, snap peas, or other veggies you have on hand. For a dairy free and fish free version, omit fish sauce and add a pinch of salt with a splash of tamari for savory depth.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar or a handful of roasted cashews for crunch. For a heartier meal, try wrapping the shrimp and peppers in warm naan or serve alongside pickled vegetables.

Serve immediately with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness. Leftovers reheat gently on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave until warmed through.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, thaw shrimp completely and pat dry before air frying to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

→ What vegetables can substitute bell peppers?

Sliced zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli florets work well and hold up nicely in the air fryer.

→ Is the coconut curry sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild heat from red curry paste and chili powder, which can be adjusted to your taste.

→ Which rice is best for the cilantro lime base?

Jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance and fluffiness, though basmati or white rice also work well.

→ Can fish sauce be omitted?

Yes, fish sauce is optional and can be replaced with soy sauce or skipped for a milder flavor.

→ How long does shrimp take to cook in the air fryer?

Jumbo shrimp typically cook in 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until opaque with lightly charred peppers.