Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon Horseradish Aioli
A bright and bold appetizer featuring tender roasted shrimp paired with a creamy lemon horseradish aioli. This simple yet elegant recipe offers smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors perfect for any occasion, delivering a healthy, protein-packed start to your meal or party.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Shrimp
- 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Lemon Horseradish Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnishes (optional)
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Preheat and Prepare Shrimp: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to coat evenly. Spread them out on a baking sheet for even roasting.
- Roast the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the preheated oven and roast for 6-8 minutes until they turn pink, opaque, and develop slightly caramelized edges. Remove promptly to avoid overcooking and ensure tender shrimp.
- Make the Lemon Horseradish Aioli: While the shrimp roast, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, horseradish, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the roasted shrimp on a chilled platter or in individual serving glasses. Drizzle the lemon horseradish aioli over the shrimp or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs to enhance presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp ensure the best texture and flavor—avoid cooking frozen shrimp directly.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they turn pink to maintain tenderness and avoid rubberiness.
- Make Aioli Ahead: Prepare the lemon horseradish aioli a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld wonderfully.
- Adjust Horseradish to Taste: Start with less horseradish and add more gradually to control the spice level.
- Serve Chilled or Room Temperature: This dish works well slightly chilled or at room temperature, ideal for outdoor events.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: shrimp cocktail, roasted shrimp, lemon horseradish aioli, appetizer, easy seafood recipe, elegant appetizer, gluten free appetizer