Shrimpers, rejoice! We’re hooking you up with 17 mouthwatering and easy-to-make shrimp recipes that will take your seafood game to the next level. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick, a tangy twist, or a comforting classic, we’ve got you covered. From the bold flavors of Thailand to the rich spices of Louisiana, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of fresh shrimp. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to dive into the world of succulent seafood.
Some standout dishes include our Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest, a simple yet elegant combination that’s sure to impress; Spicy Thai Shrimp Stir-Fry with Basil, which brings the heat and the fresh flavors of Southeast Asia; and Shrimp Scampi with White Wine and Parsley, a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
In this article, we’ll be exploring each of these recipes in detail, including cooking tips, ingredient substitutions, and serving suggestions. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest Recipe
Experience the harmonious balance of flavors as succulent shrimp meet rich garlic butter and a burst of citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange shrimp in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Thai Shrimp Stir-Fry with Basil
A flavorful and spicy dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the pungency of basil, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Chopped cilantro or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and stir-fry until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Scampi with White Wine and Parsley
A classic Italian dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, garlic butter, white wine, and fresh parsley for a delicious and impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp; cook 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside.
5. Pour in white wine; simmer 2 minutes, until reduced by half.
6. Stir in parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve shrimp with white wine and parsley sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines succulent shrimp with the warmth of coconut curry, served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and just cooked through (3-4 minutes per side).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Pour the mixture over the shrimp; simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly (2-3 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the shrimp and sauce over cooked jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make grilled shrimp skewers, served with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chimichurri sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total (depending on grill temperature)
Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage
Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage Recipe
A spicy Cajun twist on the classic shrimp and grits, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with savory andouille sausage in a flavorful one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the shrimp to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in the cooked grits and butter into the skillet with the shrimp. Combine with the cooked sausage.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Honey Garlic Shrimp with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce and topped with toasted sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp, then spoon the honey garlic mixture evenly among them.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each shrimp.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, crispy tortillas, and a creamy avocado lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, Avocado Lime Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Mango Ceviche with Red Onion
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, sweet mango, and tangy red onion for a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, mango, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the cilantro over the top and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is ready in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta with Spinach
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a seafood twist with this mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta with Spinach. Succulent shrimp, garlic, and parmesan cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
A classic New Orleans sandwich gets a seafood twist with succulent shrimp, crispy bread, and creamy remoulade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 4 hamburger buns
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickle slices (optional)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix shrimp with butter, garlic, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Split buns in half and toast.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked shrimp on bottom bun, followed by remoulade sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickle slices (if using).
6. Top with top bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots
A flavorful and filling twist on classic fried rice, this recipe adds succulent shrimp, sweet peas, and crunchy carrots for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the frozen peas and carrots to the pan and stir-fry until they’re tender but still crisp.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan, along with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Shrimp Salad with Citrus Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines succulent shrimp with a tangy citrus dressing, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the shrimp to the dressing and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and mint.
4. Remove the shrimp from the refrigerator and add them to the salad.
5. Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes marinating time)
Shrimp and Coconut Soup with Lemongrass
This creamy soup combines the flavors of coconut milk, succulent shrimp, and aromatic lemongrass for a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and lemongrass; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Shrimp with Creamy Polenta
Savor the bold flavors of blackened shrimp paired with a comforting side of creamy polenta.
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Shrimp:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Polenta:
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the mixture to the shrimp and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in butter until melted, then whisk in heavy cream and season with salt.
5. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until blackened and cooked through.
7. Serve shrimp over creamy polenta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the thrill of Japanese cuisine with this easy-to-make shrimp tempura recipe, served with a zesty dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water to form a smooth batter.
3. Dip shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Dipping Sauce (mix all ingredients together).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crispy shrimp tempura with spicy dipping sauce!
Garlic Lime Shrimp with Quinoa Pilaf
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe. Succulent shrimp, infused with the brightness of lime and the pungency of garlic, pair perfectly with a hearty quinoa pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
5. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve shrimp over quinoa pilaf and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavorful world of fresh shrimp with these 17 savory recipe ideas. From spicy stir-fries to creamy pasta dishes, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon Zest, Spicy Thai Shrimp Stir-Fry with Basil, or Shrimp Scampi with White Wine and Parsley. For a taste of the Caribbean, try Coconut Curry Shrimp with Jasmine Rice or Cajun Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, these recipes are sure to please.
