Crispy Chili Lime Shrimp with Parmesan Zucchini Bites

Here is a snack that delivers big flavor, crunch, and steadier blood sugars. Juicy chili lime shrimp and crisp Parmesan zucchini bites cook fast in the air fryer with no breading and only 3 grams net carbs per serving. The combination is light yet satisfying, making it a smart pick for afternoon cravings or a protein-forward pre-dinner nibble. Each bite balances lean protein from shrimp with low-glycemic zucchini and a touch of savory Parmesan. That mix supports satiety without spiking glucose. With about 27 grams of protein and 10 grams of fat per serving, this snack fits low carb and keto goals beautifully. If you love seafood, see all [seafood dishes](/recipes/category/seafood) for more options that put blood sugar control first. The air fryer gives you a crispy exterior without breading. Patting shrimp very dry and using a light dusting of baking powder creates a micro-crust, while Parmesan on the zucchini melts, then crisps. For easy cleanup and maximum browning, consider nonstick liners for zero carb air fryer meals or a grill plate for zero carb air fryer meals. Perforated keto air fryer parchment also helps airflow. If you arrived from our air fryer sirloin diabetic friendly recipe or were searching for keto air fryer chicken breasts techniques, you will recognize the same smart, low-carb air fryer principles at work here. Cook shrimp to a safe 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) for accurate readings, and a light mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to boost crispness without excess calories. New to air frying? Visit our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide). If you need equipment, a dependable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) is essential for consistent results. Serve hot with extra lime wedges, or pair with our crunchy, low-carb [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers keep 2 to 3 days in the fridge; re-crisp zucchini and shrimp in the air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. For batch cooking and portioning tips, check our [keto meal prep guide](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQ **Is this recipe safe for Type 2 diabetics?** Yes. It is low in net carbs, high in protein, and uses non-starchy vegetables to support steady blood sugars. **How do I get a crispy exterior without using breading?** Dry the shrimp well, add a small pinch of baking powder to the spice rub, and air fry with good airflow. Parmesan naturally crisps on the zucchini. **Does the texture change after refrigerating overnight?** The zucchini loses some crunch and shrimp firms slightly. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crisp edges.

Prep: 12 min. Cook: 10 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on optional
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds (about 14 oz/400 g)
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (40 g)
• 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp baking powder (optional, for extra crisp)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 lime, zested and juiced (about 2 tsp zest and 1 tbsp juice)
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro, optional

Instructions

1. Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tsp olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, baking powder, half the lime zest, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, toss zucchini rounds with remaining olive oil, remaining lime zest, and 1/4 tsp salt. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly to lightly coat the tops of the rounds.
3. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. For easy release, use a grill plate insert or perforated keto air fryer parchment; nonstick liners also help while maintaining airflow.
4. Arrange zucchini in a single layer, cheese side up. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is crisp. Transfer to a plate.
5. Lower air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping once, until opaque. Confirm an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit with a digital meat thermometer. Since this is shellfish, no rest time is required after reaching 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Toss hot shrimp with lime juice and cilantro if using. Serve immediately with the Parmesan zucchini bites and extra lime wedges.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer