Cajun Lemon Air Fryer Shrimp with Zucchini and Peppers

This Cajun lemon air fryer shrimp is a vibrant main dish built for balanced blood sugar and big flavor. Each serving lands around 7.5 grams net carbs, anchored by lean shrimp and fiber-rich zucchini, bell peppers, and cauliflower. It is perfect for air fryer meals keto eaters love, ideal for an air fryer quick weeknight low carb dinner, and polished enough to slot into your holiday low carb air fryer recipes rotation. Shrimp is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, which helps blunt post-meal glucose spikes. Pairing it with non-starchy vegetables keeps the glycemic load gentle while adding potassium and vitamin C. Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fat for satiety without a heavy calorie hit. If you want more seafood inspiration, see all [seafood dishes](/recipes/category/seafood) for ideas that fit a blood sugar friendly lifestyle. We keep sodium in check by using a measured amount of Cajun seasoning and lemon for brightness. There is no added sugar, and the Parmesan finish is optional. Compared with heartier proteins like keto air fryer chicken breasts, these shrimp cook in minutes, which makes portion control and timing easier for consistent glucose management. For best results, preheat your air fryer and cook vegetables first, then the shrimp. Keep pieces in a single layer and do not overcrowd. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to verify shrimp reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit per USDA guidance. An [olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) helps apply a light, even coat of oil, while a reliable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) with accurate air circulation ensures even browning. This method dials in the right air fryer temperature keto cooks rely on for crisp-tender veggies and juicy shrimp. Serve with lemon wedges and a crisp side like our tangy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers keep well for meal prep: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. For planning and batch cooking tips, check out our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) and smart strategies in the [keto meal prep guide](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQ **How do I adjust this recipe for two servings instead of four?** Halve all ingredients. Cook times stay the same; just avoid overcrowding so the vegetables roast and the shrimp finish evenly. **Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?** Yes. No need to thaw. Preheat well, add 2 to 4 extra minutes, and blot any surface moisture halfway through to keep things crisp. **Are the net carbs calculated with fiber subtracted?** Yes. Net carbs reflect total carbs minus fiber for the vegetables and seasonings in this recipe.

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 18 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, patted dry
• 4 cups zucchini, sliced into 1/2 inch half moons
• 2 cups small cauliflower florets
• 2 cups bell pepper strips, mixed colors
• 2.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, no added sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, divided
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, optional
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Toss zucchini, cauliflower, and bell pepper with 1.5 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Spread in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry vegetables at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 9 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crisp tender with light char. Transfer to a bowl and cover to keep warm.
4. While vegetables cook, combine shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Cajun seasoning, remaining 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss to coat.
5. Increase air fryer temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange shrimp in a single layer.
6. Air fry shrimp for 5 to 7 minutes until opaque and an instant read thermometer inserted in the thickest shrimp registers 145 degrees Fahrenheit per USDA guidance.
7. Return vegetables to the basket with the shrimp for 1 minute to rewarm, if needed. Transfer to plates, sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley if using, and serve with lemon wedges.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer