Cilantro Lime Air Fryer Shrimp with Zucchini and Peppers

This zesty cilantro lime shrimp turns the air fryer into a fast track for a diabetic-friendly main dish that tastes restaurant special on a weeknight. Juicy shrimp meet tender-crisp zucchini and sweet red pepper, all brightened with lime and a touch of garlic. Each serving lands well under 10 grams of net carbs, making it a smart fit for blood sugar balance without sacrificing flavor. If you love air fryer meals keto, this one will quickly become a favorite. Lean shrimp provide high quality protein with virtually no carbs, which helps curb post-meal glucose spikes. The zucchini and red pepper contribute fiber, potassium, and antioxidants while keeping the carb count controlled. The light avocado oil and herbs support heart health and satiety. For more seafood inspiration, see all [seafood dishes](/recipes/category/seafood), where we also compare cooking times across fillets and shellfish to help you dial in perfect doneness. This recipe delivers balanced macros that support steady energy: protein for fullness, modest healthy fats for flavor, and low glycemic vegetables for color and crunch. If you usually search for keto air fryer ribeye, an air fryer beef liver low carb recipe, or even an air fryer ground beef keto recipe, consider this shrimp as a lighter, equally satisfying rotation that keeps variety high and carbs low. Pro tips: Preheating helps the vegetables sear instead of steam. A quick toss in oil and spices gives even browning, and adding the shrimp in the final minutes prevents overcooking. Cook shrimp until they reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit using a reliable [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). A fine mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) reduces excess oil while promoting crisp edges, and a well-sized [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) basket keeps food in a single layer for best texture. New to the appliance? Read our step by step [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide). Serve this main with cauliflower rice, lime wedges, and a scoop of our crunchy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers store up to 3 days in a sealed container; reheat in the air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes to keep shrimp tender. For batch cooking strategies, check out our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). If you prefer a simple green side, look for low carb air fryer asparagus ideas to round out the plate without adding many carbs. FAQ: - **What low carb sweetener works best here?** Allulose lightly rounds the lime and spice without raising net carbs. A monk fruit erythritol blend also works if you prefer a crisper finish. - **Do I need to preheat the air fryer?** Yes. A brief preheat improves caramelization on the vegetables and helps the shrimp cook evenly. - **What oil is best if I cannot use olive oil?** Avocado oil is ideal for high heat and a neutral flavor. Refined coconut oil also works well.

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 14 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 1.25 pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, patted dry
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch half moons (about 4 cups)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1.5 tablespoons avocado oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated allulose or monk fruit erythritol blend
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for serving
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini and red bell pepper with 1 tablespoon avocado oil, half the minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, half the cumin and paprika, and a pinch of black pepper. Toss well.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender at the edges with light browning.
4. While vegetables cook, toss shrimp with remaining 0.5 tablespoon oil, remaining garlic, lime juice, lime zest, remaining cumin and paprika, red pepper flakes if using, remaining salt, black pepper, and allulose. Mix to coat.
5. When vegetables are lightly browned, open the basket and place the seasoned shrimp on top in a single layer. Air fry for 4 to 6 minutes more, or until the thickest shrimp reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit as measured with a digital meat thermometer and are opaque and firm.
6. Transfer to a platter. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy immediately.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer