This Air Fryer Shrimp and Vegetable Medley is a healthy, colorful, and flavor-packed meal featuring juicy shrimp, crisp-tender vegetables, and a zesty garlic herb seasoning. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a light Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Vegetables

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh basil
• Lemon wedges
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with:

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Oregano
• Basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice

Toss until evenly coated.

Let marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the vegetables.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

In another bowl, toss together:

• Zucchini
• Bell peppers
• Red onion
• Broccoli
• Cherry tomatoes

Drizzle with olive oil and season with:

• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix well to coat evenly.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step 5: Add the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the basket with the vegetables.

Cook for an additional 4–6 minutes, shaking once halfway through, until:

• The shrimp are pink and opaque.
• The vegetables are tender with lightly charred edges.

Avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer everything to a serving platter.

Garnish with:

• Fresh parsley
• Basil
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges
• Red pepper flakes, if desired

Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp

Use Similar-Sized Shrimp

Large shrimp cook evenly and stay juicy.

Don’t Overcrowd

Cook in batches if needed to allow hot air to circulate.

Add Shrimp Later

Shrimp cook much faster than vegetables, so adding them after the vegetables ensures everything finishes at the same time.

Pat Shrimp Dry

Dry shrimp brown better and develop more flavor.

Flavor Variations

Cajun Shrimp

Replace the herbs with 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.

Garlic Butter

Toss the cooked shrimp and vegetables with 2 tablespoons melted garlic butter before serving.

Mediterranean

Add:

• Kalamata olives
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Artichoke hearts

after cooking.

Asian-Inspired

Season with:

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Fresh ginger

and garnish with sesame seeds.

Spicy Lime

Add:

• Chili powder
• Fresh lime zest
• Extra lime juice

for a bright, zesty flavor.

What to Serve With

Grains

• Steamed rice
• Brown rice
• Quinoa
• Couscous

Low-Carb Options

• Cauliflower rice
• Zucchini noodles
• Mixed greens

Bread

• Garlic bread
• Warm pita
• Crusty artisan bread

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended, as the shrimp can become rubbery and the vegetables may lose their texture.

Reheating

Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Skillet

Warm gently over medium heat for 3–4 minutes.

Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking.

What size shrimp works best?

Large or extra-large shrimp (21–30 count per pound) are ideal because they stay juicy and cook evenly.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely. Try asparagus, mushrooms, green beans, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or yellow squash. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on the vegetables you choose.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a gentle “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” shape and become tough.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes. Cook the vegetables and shrimp, cool completely, and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or skillet.

Recipe Notes

✅ Ready in about 20 minutes

✅ High in protein

✅ Naturally gluten-free

✅ Mediterranean-inspired

✅ Great for meal prep

Make-Ahead Tip

Prepare the vegetables and seasoning mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavor.

Serving Suggestion

Serve over fluffy rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or crumbled feta cheese for a bright, fresh finish.

Chef’s Secret

For the best texture, cook the vegetables first, then add the shrimp during the final 4–6 minutes. This keeps the vegetables crisp-tender and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Just before serving, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of flaky sea salt to bring out the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.