How to Make Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli

If you’re looking to impress your friends or just treat yourself to a zesty, refreshing appetizer, this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli is an absolute game-changer. Juicy, perfectly roasted shrimp paired with a tangy and creamy lemon horseradish aioli makes for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this recipe brings a delightful balance of spice, citrus, and savory goodness everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet sophisticated: The combination of roasted shrimp and homemade lemon horseradish aioli feels fancy without complicated steps.
• Flavor-packed: Bright lemon and a hint of horseradish elevate the shrimp, making every bite exciting.
• Quick to make: Roasting shrimp takes just minutes, perfect for last-minute entertaining or weeknight dinners.
• Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a cocktail, appetizer, or even toss into salads and tacos.
• Healthy choice: Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein and nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli lies in the simplicity and quality of ingredients. Each contributes to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color on your plate.

• Fresh shrimp: Use medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the shrimp roast beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring natural pungency and depth.
• Lemon: Both zest and juice provide a bright citrus pop that lifts the whole dish.
• Horseradish: Prepared horseradish adds that signature spicy kick to the aioli.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the aioli keeps the sauce smooth and luscious.
• Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle sharpness that balances the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing every flavor element perfectly.
• Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley or dill for garnish and extra freshness.

Variations for Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you jazz it up or tone it down depending on your cravings, dietary preferences, or ingredient availability.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the shrimp seasoning for extra heat.
• Herbed aioli: Mix finely chopped tarragon or chives into the aioli for added herbal notes.
• Alternative protein: Swap shrimp with scallops or crab meat if you want a different seafood flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Use avocado mayo instead of traditional mayo to keep it creamy but vegan-friendly.
• Grilled variation: Instead of roasting, quickly grill shrimp to inject a smoky flavor.

How to Make Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss peeled and deveined shrimp in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Shrimp

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the shrimp for about 6-8 minutes until they’re pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender and juicy.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Horseradish Aioli

While the shrimp roasts, whisk together mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the horseradish and lemon amounts based on your preferred tang and heat levels.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the shrimp is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before plating. Serve the roasted shrimp alongside or drizzled with the lemon horseradish aioli. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for an extra burst of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli

• Use fresh shrimp: For the best texture and taste, always opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give shrimp enough space on the baking sheet for even roasting.
• Adjust aioli thickness: Thin it out with a teaspoon of water or lemon juice for a lighter dip if desired.
• Prep ahead: Make the aioli a day ahead to deepen the flavors and refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Watch your roast time: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye during roasting.

How to Serve Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill not only add a vibrant splash of green but also enhance the fresh flavor profile. Thin lemon slices or wedges also make for a lovely, edible garnish that boosts presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with crisp mixed greens, a tangy coleslaw, or even crunchy baguette slices to soak up the aioli. Light sides keep the focus on the bold shrimp flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp cocktail on a bed of crushed ice for a chic party platter, or use individual shot glasses with a shrimp and a dollop of aioli for elegant finger food. You can also skew the roasted shrimp and serve with aioli as a dipping sauce for a unique twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover roasted shrimp and aioli separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Shrimp should be eaten within 2 days for best freshness, while the aioli can last up to 4 days.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them before roasting to maintain texture. Avoid freezing the aioli as it may separate; instead, make fresh sauce when needed.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp gently in a warm skillet or oven at low heat for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can easily make shrimp rubbery. Add aioli fresh after warming for optimal flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well if thawed completely and patted dry before roasting to ensure a nice sear and avoid steaming.

How spicy is the horseradish aioli?

The horseradish provides a gentle heat and tang, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance from mild to more punchy.

Can I prepare the aioli without mayonnaise?

Absolutely! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to keep it creamy but tailor it to dietary needs.

What’s the best way to devein shrimp quickly?

Use a small paring knife or shrimp deveiner tool to make a shallow cut on the back and remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Cooking shrimp and making the aioli ahead keeps them fresh and flavorful, making it easy to assemble a quick appetizer or light meal anytime.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli that makes it an unforgettable dish. Its vibrant flavors, quick preparation, and versatility make it a winner in any kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover how simple ingredients can create a masterpiece that your taste buds will thank you for. Cheers to delicious gatherings and joyful bites!

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