Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s effortlessly elegant and bursting with vibrant flavors, the Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Juicy, perfectly roasted shrimp paired with a zesty, creamy aioli that balances the tang of lemon with a subtle kick of horseradish creates an unforgettable appetizer or light meal. This recipe blends simplicity with sophistication, making it ideal for entertaining guests or treating yourself on any day you deserve something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe plays a key role, from the plump, succulent shrimp to the bright, creamy aioli that ties it all together. Each component brings texture, flavor, or color that makes the dish shine effortlessly.

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the aioli, providing richness and smooth texture.
• Prepared horseradish: Adds a lively, spicy kick but balanced so it doesn’t overpower.
• Lemon zest: Infuses fresh citrus aroma and a pop of brightness to the aioli.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings acidity and freshness that brighten the entire dish.
• Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star ingredient, roasted for a juicy, tender bite.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Helps the shrimp roast evenly and adds subtle richness.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Offers a gentle heat that complements the horseradish.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Garnishes the shrimp and aioli for a burst of color and fresh herbaceous note.

How to Make Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aioli

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. This easy sauce is where the magic happens, giving your shrimp cocktail a creamy texture with zesty, spicy layers. Pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully while you get everything else ready.

Step 2: Preheat and Season Shrimp

Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and pat your shrimp dry with paper towels — this step is crucial for that perfect roast without steaming. Toss the shrimp in a bowl with extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper so each piece gets coated evenly and is ready to absorb those brilliant flavors while roasting.

Step 3: Roast the Shrimp

Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Space the shrimp about half an inch apart to ensure even roasting. Pop them in the oven for 5 to 6 minutes, turning halfway through to get a gorgeous pink color and just-cooked, juicy texture. The quick roasting keeps them tender and flavorful without any fuss.

Step 4: Final Touches and Serve

Once out of the oven, transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle the lemon zest and chopped parsley over the lemon-horseradish aioli, and add a crack of black pepper to finish. Serve the shrimp alongside the aioli, either at room temperature or chilled depending on your mood — both ways are absolutely delicious.

How to Serve Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add vibrant green color and a fresh burst of flavor that complements the shrimp. A little extra lemon zest sprinkled on top can heighten the citrus notes even further. For an elegant touch, serve with lemon wedges so guests can add a squeeze if they desire an extra tart punch.

Side Dishes

Keeping it simple works best here. Crisp, fresh veggies like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips provide a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy aioli and tender shrimp. Lightly toasted crusty bread or crackers also make wonderful accompaniments for scooping and dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe by serving it in individual cocktail glasses for an impressive party appetizer. Layer shrimp over ice with a spoonful of aioli for a classic cocktail vibe with a roasted twist. Alternatively, arrange on a vibrant platter with colorful garnishes for a communal, inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the roasted shrimp and aioli separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This preserves the freshness and texture of both components so you can enjoy them later without compromise.

Freezing

While the shrimp can be frozen if necessary, it’s best to consume the Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe fresh for optimal taste and texture. The aioli does not freeze well due to its creamy base, so keep that part refrigerated only.

Reheating

To gently reheat shrimp without drying them out, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for just a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen seafood quickly. Serve with chilled aioli for that perfect contrast.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture interfering with the roasting process.

Is there a substitute for prepared horseradish in the aioli?

You can substitute with a small amount of wasabi paste or freshly grated horseradish if you have it on hand, but prepared horseradish is best for balanced heat and texture.

How long can I keep the aioli in the fridge?

The lemon-horseradish aioli can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it easy to prepare in advance.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of roasting?

Grilling works wonderfully too! Just brush the shrimp with olive oil and grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through for a slightly smoky flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this for a party?

For gatherings, serving the shrimp chilled over a bed of ice with small bowls of aioli for dipping is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to manage and looks fantastic.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Roasted Shrimp Cocktail With Lemon-Horseradish Aioli Recipe that feels both classic and fresh at the same time. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish bursting with bright, lively flavors that’s perfect for sharing. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try — it’s sure to charm your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it!

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