If you need something fast, low-effort, and guaranteed to disappear at a party… this is it.
This Party Shrimp is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a yacht chef. Why would that be, you might ask yourself.
Cause this was exactly what our guests got as an appetizer whilst floating around the British Virgin Islands and whooo weeeee was it popular!
Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and somehow always the first thing gone from the table.
It’s juicy, slightly sweet, a little garlicky, and perfect with a big bowl of cocktail sauce and lemon slices.
👉 Think: holiday apps, weekend getaways, casual hosting, or “what can I throw together in 20 minutes?”
Let’s do this!
what you need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon each: paprika, Italian seasoning, pepper and dried basil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
this is how we do it
1. In a bowl (or zip bag), combine everything except the shrimp.
2. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for about 2 hours (or even 30 minutes if you’re in a rush).
3. Preheat oven to broil. Spread shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Broil for 3–4 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
That’s it. DONE.
Perfect Shrimp!
Wait there’s more! You’re going to need a cocktail sauce for dipping!
cocktail sauce dip
- Ketchup
- Horseradish or horseradish cream
- Lemon
Mix up in equal portions at first and then adjust to taste.
The horseradish cream is spicy but oh so good!
Slice up the lemons for the platter.
how to serve it
- Pile onto a platter with cocktail sauce in the center add lots of lemon slices
- You can also used shrimp that hasn’t been peeled for the messy interactive experience you are craving!
- Serve with focaccia for an appetizer/lunch version.
- Served warm or at room temperature either way holds up great
make ahead friendly
This is a dream for hosting:
- Marinate earlier in the day
- Cook right before guests arrive
- Or serve chilled — still amazing
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more great shrimp recipes:
Shrimp and Broccoli Pho style noodle Bowl