Chili Lime Air Fryer Shrimp With Zucchini and Peppers

Name: Chili Lime Air Fryer Shrimp With Zucchini and Peppers
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 24 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 1 pound large raw shrimp (16 to 20 count), peeled and deveined; 1 medium zucchini (200 g), sliced into 1/4 inch half moons; 1 small red bell pepper (120 g), cut into thin strips; 1.5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges, for serving

This Chili Lime Air Fryer Shrimp makes a fast, flavor-packed dinner that diabetics can enjoy with confidence. Tender shrimp and colorful low carb vegetables come together in minutes, delivering bright, zesty flavors without spiking blood sugar. If you are exploring air fryer meals keto and want something lighter than steak, this shrimp is a smart, satisfying choice that still feels restaurant worthy. Shrimp is naturally lean, high in protein, and contains virtually no carbohydrates, which supports steady blood sugar. Paired with zucchini and red pepper, you get fiber, vitamins, and a crunchy texture that helps with satiety. Each serving lands at about 4 grams net carbs, making it ideal for those managing diabetes. Many readers love keto air fryer ribeye, but rotating to seafood helps balance overall fat intake while keeping carbs controlled. This recipe proves you can stay low carb and still eat bold, satisfying flavors. For variety, think of this dish as a companion to favorites like keto air fryer bacon or keto air fryer salmon. Shrimp cooks quickly and stays juicy when you follow safe cooking temperatures. Shellfish should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest portion, confirmed with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). If you want more low carb inspiration, browse [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics), or try our citrusy take on seafood in [Air Fryer Salmon](/recipes/air-fryer-salmon). These ideas also make excellent low carb air fryer snacks for busy weeks. Preheating is key for searing and caramelization. Toss the vegetables with a bit of olive oil and spices, air fry until crisp-tender, then cook the shrimp just until it hits 145 degrees Fahrenheit. A dual-zone setup like a [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) lets you cook shrimp and vegetables at the same time and keep everything hot. Shrimp does not require a rest period, so you can serve immediately once it is safely cooked. Serve the shrimp and vegetables with lime wedges and fresh cilantro. For a fuller meal, add a small side of cauliflower rice or sliced avocado, keeping portions modest to maintain net carbs. Leftovers store well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator; reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. For variations, swap zucchini for broccoli or bok choy, or change the spice profile with garlic powder and a pinch of chipotle. This versatile method keeps your plate exciting while supporting blood sugar goals.

Prep: 12 min. Cook: 12 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

1 pound large raw shrimp (16 to 20 count), peeled and deveined
1 medium zucchini (200 g), sliced into 1/4 inch half moons
1 small red bell pepper (120 g), cut into thin strips
1.5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat and set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini and bell pepper with olive oil and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Add the vegetables to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp-tender and lightly charred. Transfer to a plate.
Place the marinated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to verify doneness.
Shellfish does not require a rest period. Return vegetables to the basket for 1 minute if needed to rewarm, then plate the shrimp and vegetables together.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy immediately.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer