Party Shrimp

Introduction

These bite-sized shrimp are the ultimate appetizer for seafood lovers, packing bold flavors into a quick and easy dish. Marinated in a zesty, garlicky sauce with just the right amount of spice, they’re then baked or broiled to perfection, creating a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

The first time I made these, they disappeared within minutes—everyone kept coming back for more! What makes them so irresistible is their perfect balance of tangy citrus, savory garlic, and a hint of heat. They’re incredibly versatile, too—serve them with cocktail picks for easy entertaining, tuck them into tacos, or toss them over a fresh salad for a light meal.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, need a protein-packed snack, or just want a restaurant-quality dish at home, these shrimp are sure to be a crowd favorite. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’ll be your new go-to for any occasion!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers and party platters
• Quick weeknight meals
• Seafood lovers
• Low-carb and keto-friendly diets
• Entertaining guests

Why You’ll Love This Party Shrimp

Here’s why Party Shrimp will be your new go-to appetizer:

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Bold and Zesty Flavors: A combination of garlic, lemon, and spices infuses the shrimp with incredible taste.
• Perfectly Juicy: Cooking at high heat ensures that each shrimp stays plump and tender.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to your preference, whether you like it mild or with a fiery kick.
• Healthy and Protein-Packed: Shrimp are naturally low in calories and high in protein, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Servings: 4 (about 6-8 shrimp per serving)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 3g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Party Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or parsley
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for extra richness, optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful when cooked at high heat.
• Garlic and Lemon Juice: These add a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
• Smoked Paprika and Red Pepper Flakes: Provide a mild smokiness and a touch of heat.
• Olive Oil and Butter: Olive oil ensures even cooking, while a bit of butter adds richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Party Shrimp:

Marinate the Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 5-10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor).

Cook the Shrimp:

4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to broil (or preheat to 425°F/220°C if baking). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Arrange the Shrimp: Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. If broiling, place them about 6 inches from the heat source.
6. Cook:
   • Broil: Broil for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until shrimp are pink and slightly charred.
   • Bake: Bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked and opaque.
7. Add Butter (Optional): If using, drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp for extra richness.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

How to Serve for Party Shrimp

Party Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an Appetizer: Arrange the shrimp on a platter with cocktail sauce or a garlic aioli for dipping.
• Over Rice or Pasta: Serve with white rice, garlic butter noodles, or a light pasta dish.
• In Tacos: Stuff the shrimp into warm tortillas with slaw and a drizzle of spicy mayo.
• With a Fresh Salad: Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light meal.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Pair with cheeses, crackers, and olives for a gourmet presentation.

Additional Tips for Party Shrimp

Here are some tips to ensure your Party Shrimp turn out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp rather than frozen. If you must use frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Devein for Clean Shrimp: Be sure to devein the shrimp before cooking. The vein is not only unsightly but can have a bitter taste.
• Marinate the Shrimp: Let your shrimp marinate for 15–30 minutes in your seasoning mix to enhance the flavor.
• Skewer for Easy Serving: If serving at a party, skewer the shrimp for easy pick-up. Wooden skewers work well, but be sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different spices, like smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning, for unique flavors.
• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the shrimp. Cooking in batches ensures even heat distribution and a crisp exterior.
• Serve with Dips: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce, garlic butter, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
• Chill for a Cool Option: For a refreshing party snack, chill the cooked shrimp and serve them on a platter with lemon wedges and dipping sauces.
• Grill for Smoky Flavor: If you’re grilling, brush the shrimp with olive oil and cook over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish your party shrimp with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
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Recipe Variations for Party Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Party Shrimp:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap olive oil for butter and add extra garlic for a richer flavor.
• Cajun Party Shrimp: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika for a Southern-style twist.
• Honey Lime Shrimp: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and replace lemon juice with lime juice for a sweet and tangy version.
• Chili-Lime Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with chili powder and lime zest for a zesty, smoky heat.
• Teriyaki Shrimp: Marinate in teriyaki sauce and serve with sesame seeds and scallions.
• Margarita Shrimp: Add a splash of tequila and lime juice for a fun, boozy variation.
• Coconut Shrimp: Coat in shredded coconut and breadcrumbs, then bake or fry for a crispy texture.
• Spicy Sriracha Shrimp: Mix sriracha into the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Use fresh basil, thyme, and rosemary instead of paprika for a Mediterranean twist.
• Greek-Style Shrimp: Marinate with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon, then serve with feta cheese.

Freezing and Storage for Party Shrimp

• Freezing: Store raw marinated shrimp in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
• Storage: Leftover cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or enjoy cold in salads.

Special Equipment for Party Shrimp

• Large Mixing Bowl – For combining seasonings and marinating shrimp.
• Baking Sheet – To arrange shrimp for baking or broiling.
• Parchment Paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent shrimp from sticking.
• Tongs – For handling shrimp without piercing them.
• Meat Thermometer – To ensure shrimp are perfectly cooked.
• Skewers – If you prefer grilling or broiling the shrimp on skewers.
• Grill Pan – For grilling shrimp indoors if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
• Squeeze Bottle – For drizzling sauces or marinades on shrimp.
• Food Processor – If making a dipping sauce or seasoning blend from scratch.
• Serving Platter – For presenting the cooked shrimp in style at the party.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, marinate the shrimp up to 12 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
3. How do I know when shrimp are done?
   They should be pink, opaque, and slightly curled.
4. Can I grill instead of broil?
   Yes, grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
5. What’s the best dipping sauce?
   Cocktail sauce, garlic butter, or a spicy aioli work great.

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Conclusion

Party Shrimp are the ultimate blend of quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or savoring them as a simple meal, their bold, garlicky taste is sure to be a hit.

Ready in minutes, these shrimp make entertaining effortless while delivering big flavor in every bite. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish—either way, they’ll disappear fast!

I’d love to see your Party Shrimp creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see how you enjoy them. Happy cooking!