Life is full of moments that bring joy. Moments like hosting a gathering with friends and family. Nothing brings people together like delicious shrimp appetizers.
The smell of fresh dishes from the kitchen makes any event special. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and taste amazing.
In this guide, we share 17 healthy shrimp appetizers to impress your guests. You can try flavors from Thai cuisine or stick to classics. Shrimp is a lean protein that’s quick to cook.
Imagine serving Roasted Shrimp Cocktail or Shrimp Ceviche at your next party. These dishes are not only tasty but also use sustainable ingredients.
These shrimp appetizers are simple yet flavorful, perfect for any event. They can be made ahead of time or cooked in under 30 minutes. For example, our Marinated Shrimp Appetizer is a refreshing choice. It’s easy to prepare ahead, so you can enjoy your guests more.
Consider adding Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp or Shrimp Tostada Bites to your menu. They add elegance and fun to your gatherings. Plus, they’re healthy, made with fresh ingredients.
Get ready to be the star of your next event with this guide. We have recipes from Shrimp Tempura Rolls to cilantro-lime wraps. Find the perfect appetizer for your guests and impress them with these flavorful dishes.
Want to try our Marinated Shrimp Appetizer? Find the full recipe here.
Introduction: The Benefits of Shrimp Appetizers
Shrimp appetizers are a great choice for any event or meal. They are packed with protein and low in fat, making them a tasty and healthy option. Plus, they cook quickly, which is perfect for hosts who are short on time.
These healthy shrimp appetizers are good for many diets because they are low in calories and rich in nutrients. They are full of omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12. Shrimp are also gluten-free, making them great for paleo or keto diets.
Shrimp are very versatile in cooking. They soak up flavors fast and only need 15-30 minutes to marinate. This makes them ideal for quick shrimp appetizers that are both delicious and enhance the meal.
| Shrimp Size | Count per Pound | Ideal Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 16/20 | 16 to 20 | Grilled or Roasted |
| 21/25 | 21 to 25 | Appetizers |
| 31/35 | 31 to 35 | Salads and Skewers |
Thawing shrimp in the fridge overnight is safest. Cold water thawing takes about an hour. Whether it’s a classic shrimp cocktail or a new version with different sauces, shrimp appetizers are always a winner. Using creative presentation ideas like tiered stands or garnishing with herbs can make them look even better.
Adding these appetizers to your menu highlights the benefits of shrimp. They also make for a delicious and nutritious start to any meal.
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli
Looking for a new twist on shrimp cocktail? Try the roasted shrimp version. It’s firmer and tastier, thanks to the zesty Lemon-Horseradish Aioli. These appetizers are perfect for cold weather or as a fancy starter.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs jumbo shrimp (approximately 32 to 40 shrimp, U12 to U15), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons horseradish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the shrimp on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes until they turn pink and firm.
- While the shrimp are roasting, mix the ketchup, horseradish, and lemon juice to make the cocktail sauce. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- To prepare the *Lemon-Horseradish Aioli*, combine the mayonnaise, garlic, Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of the prepared cocktail sauce in a small bowl. Mix well.
- Let the roasted shrimp cool slightly before serving with the *Lemon-Horseradish Aioli*.
Want to learn more about this *Roasted Shrimp Cocktail recipe* and its versatility? Check out the comprehensive guide from Gitta’s Kitchen.
| Nutritional Information per Serving | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 164mg |
| Sodium | 1068mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 14g |
Enjoy your *tasty shrimp appetizers* fresh. To reheat, place shrimp in the oven at 350°F or sauté in butter for a few minutes to retain their juiciness.
Shrimp Ceviche
The Shrimp Ceviche recipe is a light and refreshing appetizer inspired by Mexican cuisine. It’s perfect for health-conscious people, with a flavorful and slightly acidic taste. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to make this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of raw medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tail-off
- 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8 limes)
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from 3 lemons, plus zest)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (from 1/2 orange)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeno, minced (ribs and seeds removed)
- 3/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 3/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 avocado, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Poaching the Shrimp: Boil water, add shrimp, and poach for 1 to 2 minutes until pink. Then, cool in an ice bath. If using raw shrimp, skip this step.
- Marinating: Mix lime, lemon, and orange juices in a bowl. Add shrimp and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour for poached shrimp, or 20 minutes to 2 hours for raw shrimp, until “cooked” by the citrus acid.
- Mixing Ingredients: Add sliced red onions, minced jalapeno, diced cucumber, Roma tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and avocado to the marinated shrimp. Season with dried oregano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper.
- Refrigeration: Let the ceviche sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to meld flavors.
- Serving: Serve chilled as a simple shrimp appetizer idea. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
This Shrimp Ceviche recipe has about 129.7 kcal per serving, with 11.6 g of protein and 5.8 g of fat. Its fresh flavors and vibrant colors are sure to impress at any gathering!
Bang Bang Shrimp
Making the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is all about finding the right mix of crunch and spice. These flavorful shrimp appetizers are a hit, combining crispy fried shrimp with a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. It’s a dish that impresses everyone, whether it’s for a party or just a tasty treat.
Preparing these spicy shrimp appetizers takes just 26 minutes, with only 6 minutes of cooking. Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional values and how to prepare them:
| Nutritional Values (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 630 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Protein | 34g |
| Total Fat | 32g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 403mg |
| Sodium | 2361mg |
| Potassium | 215mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Vitamin A | 143 IU |
| Vitamin C | 7mg |
| Calcium | 291mg |
| Iron | 4mg |
Begin by preparing the shrimp. You’ll need 2 pounds of medium shrimp, cleaned and deveined. Marinate them in 1.5 cups of buttermilk. For the coating, mix ¾ cups of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This ensures a crunchy texture when fried.
Heat 6 cups of vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 375 degrees F. Fry the shrimp in small batches, about 3-4 minutes per batch, until golden brown and crispy. The right frying temperature and time are key for the perfect texture.
The sauce is where the magic happens. Mix 1 cup of mayonnaise with ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce until smooth. Toss the fried shrimp in this flavorful sauce. Top with 2 tablespoons of diced green onions for extra flavor and color.
These Bang Bang Shrimp are not just a tasty spicy shrimp appetizer. They show how versatile and satisfying shrimp can be. Enjoy them as a treat or share them at a party. Their bold flavors and crispiness will always impress.
Easy Shrimp Toast
One of the popular shrimp appetizers loved by many is Chinese shrimp toast. This Shrimp Toast recipe combines East and West flavors, making it both tasty and crunchy. It started in early 20th-century China and is now a favorite dim sum dish worldwide.
| Preparation and Cook Time | 25 minutes (10 minutes prep + 15 minutes cook) |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 people |
| Ingredients |
|
| Cooking Temperature | 400°F (approximately 204°C) |
| Baking Time | 15-18 minutes until golden and crispy |
| Nutritional Information (Per Serving) |
|
This Shrimp Toast recipe has gotten 212.5K shares and 212.3K views. It’s a hit with its tasty shrimp mix. Spread it on ciabatta or baguette slices for a crispy treat. It’s a must-try for any shrimp lover!
Pesto Shrimp Skewers
The Pesto Shrimp Skewers recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a tasty shrimp appetizer in under 30 minutes. It combines pesto, lemon, and tender shrimp for a burst of flavor. This dish is not just tasty but also healthy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. of medium or large frozen shrimp
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 lemons, halved
- 7 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 20 minutes)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Combine the shrimp with the pesto in a bowl, mixing well to coat each shrimp thoroughly. Let it marinate for a few hours.
- Thread the shrimp onto the skewers, placing lemon halves on the skewers as well.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for 3-4 minutes per side until they are pink and cooked through. Grill the lemon halves for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the skewers hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
These quick shrimp skewers are not only an appetizing starter but also boast a healthy nutritional profile. Each skewer offers approximately 180 calories, 25.5 grams of protein, 8.5 grams of fat, and just 0.5 grams of carbohydrates. Perfect for those looking to entertain without compromising on health or flavor.
Shrimp Tempura Rolls
Shrimp Tempura Rolls are a treat for the eyes and taste buds. They combine crispy shrimp, avocado, and seasoned rice. This makes for a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious. Here’s a simple recipe to make these rolls at home, bringing Japanese shrimp tempura flavors to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked sushi rice
- 2 cups water (for cooking rice)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 4 nori sheets
- 8 pre-cooked tempura shrimp
- 8 cucumber strips
- 8 avocado slices
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rice in 2 cups of water, then let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Mix until dissolved and fold into the cooked rice.
- Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, shiny side down.
- Spread a thin layer of seasoned rice over the nori, leaving an inch at the top.
- Place 2 tempura shrimp, 2 cucumber strips, and 2 avocado slices horizontally on the rice.
- Roll the bamboo mat away from you, pressing firmly to shape the roll.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the roll before slicing it into 8 even pieces.
With this Shrimp Tempura Rolls recipe, you can easily make crispy shrimp rolls like those found in Japan. They’re perfect for any special occasion!
Shrimp Tostada Bites
Looking for a great dish for a casual get-together? The Shrimp Tostada Bites recipe is perfect. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With shrimp, avocado, and fresh toppings, these bites are a hit at any event.
Ingredients
- 26/30 count size shrimp, ¾ pound (18 pieces)
- 2 teaspoons blackening seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon granulated garlic
- 2 medium-large ripe avocados
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- ½ teaspoon lime zest
- 9 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 18 round corn tortilla chips
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp with blackening seasoning, cumin, paprika, and granulated garlic for 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Once cooled, dice the shrimp into smaller chunks.
- In a bowl, mash the avocados, then mix in lime juice and zest to create guacamole. You can refer to this recipe for variations.
- Spread a layer of guacamole over each tortilla chip. Top with diced shrimp, quartered cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
- Arrange your shrimp tostadas on a serving platter and enjoy these delicious, easy party appetizers.
These Shrimp Tostada Bites are not just tasty but also healthy. Each bite has about 119 calories, 8 grams of carbs, and 7 grams of protein. They’re perfect for any celebration or casual hangout!
Conclusion
Throughout this guide, we’ve seen many tasty shrimp appetizer options. From the zesty Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Lemon-Horseradish Aioli to the flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp, each dish is special. These ideas are great for any party, with flavors for everyone.
Shrimp appetizers are also good for those watching their diet. Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein, fitting paleo or keto diets well. It’s packed with nutrients like omega-3s, iodine, and vitamin B12, boosting heart health and metabolism.
Shrimp is also super convenient, perfect for busy hosts. It cooks in just 3-5 minutes, making prep quick and easy. Whether it’s a small dinner or a big party, shrimp is a great choice to wow your guests. So, get ready to make these delicious dishes and see why shrimp appetizers are loved by all.