Introduction
Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that’s bursting with flavor? This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli with Toasted Sesame Seeds is a perfect choice. This recipe combines succulent shrimp and tender broccoli with a sweet and savory honey-garlic glaze. Toasted sesame seeds add a delicate nutty flavor, and a final drizzle of light soy-sesame sauce elevates the dish. The air fryer makes cooking both fast and easy, giving the shrimp and broccoli a light, crisp finish with minimal oil. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this recipe is both nutritious and low-calorie.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp and Broccoli:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (light or low sodium)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ginger, freshly grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Broccoli
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp and broccoli.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then add the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- This preheating step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp and broccoli crisp up better.
Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp and Broccoli in the Air Fryer
- Place the shrimp and broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Ensure they’re spread out, allowing for airflow and even cooking.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Cook the shrimp and broccoli in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Halfway through cooking (around 4-5 minutes), open the air fryer and gently shake the basket to toss the ingredients, promoting even cooking.
- Once cooked, the shrimp should be opaque and slightly golden, and the broccoli should be tender with crispy edges.
Step 5: Toast the Sesame Seeds
- In a small skillet over low heat, add sesame seeds.
- Toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
- Mix the light soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl.
- Arrange the shrimp and broccoli on a serving platter, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Drizzle the soy-sesame dressing over the dish and serve with fresh lime wedges.
Cooking Notes:
- Shrimp Size: Use large or extra-large shrimp for a juicy texture. Smaller shrimp can work, but adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
- Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw thoroughly before cooking and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Honey Substitution: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey if preferred.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light cucumber salad or Asian slaw for a refreshing side.
- Try adding other vegetables to the air fryer mix, like bell peppers or snap peas, to make it more colorful and nutritious.
Tips:
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey by half.
- Extra Crispiness: For crispier broccoli, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Watch the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Check them around the 8-minute mark.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
Conclusion
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli with Toasted Sesame Seeds is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, balanced meal without the hassle of extensive prep. The air fryer brings out the best textures, and the combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce gives this dish a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This recipe is versatile, quick, and ideal for busy nights or anyone looking for a delicious, guilt-free dinner option. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
PrintAir Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli with Toasted Sesame Seeds
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp and Broccoli:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (light or low sodium)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ginger, freshly grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Broccoli
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shrimp and broccoli.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then add the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- This preheating step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp and broccoli crisp up better.
Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp and Broccoli in the Air Fryer
- Place the shrimp and broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Ensure they’re spread out, allowing for airflow and even cooking.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Cook the shrimp and broccoli in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Halfway through cooking (around 4-5 minutes), open the air fryer and gently shake the basket to toss the ingredients, promoting even cooking.
- Once cooked, the shrimp should be opaque and slightly golden, and the broccoli should be tender with crispy edges.
Step 5: Toast the Sesame Seeds
- In a small skillet over low heat, add sesame seeds.
- Toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the seeds are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
- Mix the light soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl.
- Arrange the shrimp and broccoli on a serving platter, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Drizzle the soy-sesame dressing over the dish and serve with fresh lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 680mg
- Protein: 18g