Summer is here, and what better way to enjoy the warm weather than with a delicious plate of fresh shrimp? Whether you’re grilling them up on the patio or adding them to a refreshing salad, there’s nothing quite like the taste of succulent shrimp to brighten up your meal. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this summer staple.
From classic scampi dishes to bold and spicy Cajun-inspired recipes, and from creamy pasta sauces to light and zesty ceviches, there’s something for every taste bud on this list. So go ahead, fire up your grill or heat up your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise. In the next section, we’ll be exploring the first 9 recipes that will get you started on your shrimp-filled summer.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
- If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10-12 minutes
- Total time: 15-17 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skewers
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this bold and zesty recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy cajun seasoning, and smoky grill flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Old Bay)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Thread 2-3 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Lime Shrimp Curry
Elevate your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful Coconut Lime Shrimp Curry, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through (2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in the coconut milk, lime juice, and curry powder; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of cumin for a flavorful and healthy meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice and cumin.
2. Add the shrimp and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Add the cooked shrimp to the avocado mixture and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes (depending on marinating time)
Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your next outdoor gathering with this simple and delicious shrimp recipe. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner, these grilled shrimp are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the shrimp.
4. Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Mexican cuisine with this easy-to-make recipe for Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook 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 by placing cooked shrimp onto tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Spinach
A delicious and quick pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until translucent, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and spinach leaves to the skillet. Toss until well combined and heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe makes a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with colorful vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return shrimp to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Ceviche with Fresh Lime
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the brightness of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dashes hot sauce (such as sriracha)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the acidity of the lime.
2. Just before serving, stir in the chopped red onion and cilantro.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
4. If desired, add a dash or two of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Shrimp and Grits with Cheese
Savor the warm comfort of a Southern classic, elevated by melted cheese. This Shrimp and Grits with Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy twist on the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside.
4. Reduce heat to low; stir in 1/4 cup cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked grits with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese until well combined.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the cheesy grits mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Shrimp Fried Rice
This flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp, fragrant Thai basil, and savory fried rice, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until combined with vegetables.
5. Add soy sauce, chopped Thai basil, salt, and pepper; stir-fry until well combined.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the rice mixture.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich Recipe
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This classic Louisiana-inspired sandwich is a must-try! Crispy fried shrimp, tangy remoulade sauce, and crunchy lettuce all come together to create a flavor explosion on toasted French bread.
Ingredients:
—————-
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
– Toasted French bread
Instructions:
————-
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated shrimp in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on toasted French bread, topping with fried shrimp, and finishing with lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of shrimp, creating a delicious and nutritious main course. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked shrimp mixture, leaving room at the top.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheese on top of each pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Corn Chowder
This hearty and flavorful chowder is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. With succulent shrimp, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Add shrimp and corn kernels. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Corn Chowder!
Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp with the richness of honey and garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
5. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional minute, until the sauce is caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp Alfredo with Broccoli
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of succulent shrimp, rich alfredo sauce, and tender broccoli makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth and heated through.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and broccoli in the saucepan with alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce
These crispy shrimp spring rolls served with a creamy peanut sauce make for a delicious and refreshing snack or appetizer. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry spring rolls until crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
5. Serve with peanut sauce (see below). Peanut sauce: Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying time)
Shrimp and Pineapple Kebabs
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and colorful kebabs, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing shrimp recipes! From classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi to Spicy Cajun Shrimp Skewers and Coconut Lime Shrimp Curry, there’s something for every taste bud. Cool off with a Shrimp and Avocado Salad or Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp, while seafood lovers will delight in Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa and Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Spinach. For a taste of the tropics, try Shrimp Ceviche with Fresh Lime or Thai Basil Shrimp Fried Rice. Whatever your craving, these 18 flavorful recipes are sure to satisfy!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
