The Zesty Quick-Pickled Shrimp Recipe You Need To Try

Crisp summer days call for a delightful southern pickled shrimp recipe that dances between tangy and bright.

These zesty seafood bites pack an incredible punch of flavor that surprises everyone at gatherings.

Marinating transforms ordinary shrimp into something magical and unexpected.

Guests will marvel at the complex layers of taste emerging from simple ingredients.

Quick pickling techniques ensure you savor every delectable morsel without complicated preparation.

Each bite delivers a refreshing coastal sensation that transports you straight to seaside memories.

Impressing companions with this effortless yet sophisticated appetizer that comes together in minutes.

Dive into this recipe and watch how a few ingredients become a conversation-starting delicacy.

Why Pickled Shrimp Always Hits The Mark

• Quick and Zesty Seafood Delight: Pickled shrimp burst with tangy flavors that transform ordinary seafood into an extraordinary appetizer, offering a vibrant and refreshing taste experience in minutes.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: The simple boiling technique ensures perfectly cooked shrimp every time, with Old Bay seasoning adding a classic seafood kick and the ice bath preventing overcooking for tender, juicy results.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: This recipe adapts effortlessly to different occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant cocktail parties, serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
• Healthy and Flavor-Packed Option: The marinade combines heart-healthy olive oil, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs, creating a low-calorie dish that doesn't compromise on taste or nutritional value.

What Goes In Pickled Shrimp

• Shrimp: Fresh and succulent protein that becomes tender and flavorful when pickled, best when large or jumbo size with shells removed.
• Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that adds robust maritime flavor, provides signature coastal taste profile.

• White Vinegar, Lemon Juice: Acidic liquids that create tangy preservation environment, help break down shrimp proteins and enhance overall taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds smooth richness and helps blend marinade ingredients, provides subtle background flavor.

• Garlic, Red Onion: Sharp and pungent ingredients that infuse deep savory notes, provide complex layered taste.
• Parsley, Bay Leaf: Fresh herbal elements that contribute brightness and traditional pickling complexity, add visual and flavor depth.
• Red Pepper Flakes, Black Peppercorns: Spicy components that introduce mild heat and sharp zesty undertones, create subtle background warmth.

• Dijon Mustard, Salt: Binding agents that round out marinade flavors, help emulsify and season the pickle.
• Capers: Optional briny element that introduces tangy Mediterranean accent, provides unexpected textural contrast.

How To Put Together Pickled Shrimp Fast

Step 1: Boil and Shock Shrimp

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in Old Bay seasoning and toss in some fresh lemon slices. Gently drop the shrimp into the bubbling water and cook until they turn a beautiful pink color and look perfectly opaque (about 2-3 minutes). Quickly transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Whip Up Flavor-Packed Marinade

• White vinegar
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Sea salt

• Minced garlic
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Red pepper flakes
• Whole black peppercorns
• Bay leaf
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Briny capers (optional)

Step 3: Marry Shrimp with Marinade

Lovingly fold the cooked shrimp into the marinade, ensuring each morsel gets coated with the zesty mixture. Transfer everything to a clean glass container, making sure the shrimp are completely submerged in the liquid magic.

Step 4: Infuse with Flavor

Cover the container and tuck it into the refrigerator. Let the shrimp soak up all the incredible flavors for at least 4 hours, though overnight is even better. Give the container a gentle stir now and then to distribute the marinade evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Pull out your pickled shrimp when you’re ready to impress! Serve them chilled as a tantalizing appetizer alongside crispy crackers, sprinkle over a fresh salad, or create a stunning seafood platter that’ll make everyone’s mouth water.

Tips That Help With Pickled Shrimp Every Time

• Quick-Chill Technique: Plunge just-cooked shrimp into an ice bath immediately to stop cooking and preserve their tender, juicy texture without overcooking.
• Flavor Infusion Hack: Let the shrimp marinate overnight to maximize absorption of tangy, aromatic seasonings from the vinegar and spices.
• Seafood Storage Tip: Store pickled shrimp in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Serving Flexibility: Enjoy these pickled shrimp as a versatile appetizer, salad topper, or protein-rich party snack that impresses with its vibrant, zesty flavor profile.
• Diet-Friendly Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb or keto diets by pairing with fresh vegetables or low-carb crackers.

Best Way To Save Pickled Shrimp And Enjoy Later

• Refrigerate: Store pickled shrimp in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the shrimp completely covered in the marinade to maintain freshness and flavor.
• Preserve Texture: Avoid freezing pickled shrimp as it will significantly change the delicate texture and compromise the quality of the seafood.
• Reheat Caution: Enjoy pickled shrimp cold, as reheating can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. Serve directly from the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.
• Quick Serving Tip: Remove shrimp from the marinade with a slotted spoon when ready to eat, allowing excess liquid to drain before placing on your serving dish.

Tasty Pairings For Pickled Shrimp

• Zingy Wine Pairing: Crisp, chilled sauvignon blanc complements the tangy pickled shrimp perfectly, cutting through the vinegar's acidity while enhancing the seafood's delicate flavor.
• Craft Beer Companion: Light, citrusy wheat beer or a bright blonde ale adds refreshing notes that match the zesty marinade's complexity and cleanse the palate.
• Crusty Bread Partner: Artisan sourdough or rustic baguette slices provide a perfect textural contrast, helping to soak up the delicious marinade and balance the shrimp's sharp pickle profile.
• Mediterranean Mezze Spread: Serve alongside green olives, feta cheese, and herbed hummus to create a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer board that elevates the pickled shrimp's vibrant character.

Switch Things Up With Pickled Shrimp

• Spicy Cajun Fusion: Swap Old Bay seasoning with Cajun spice blend, add diced jalapeños, and mix in smoked paprika for a fiery Louisiana-inspired pickled shrimp experience.
• Mediterranean Herb Blend: Replace parsley with fresh oregano and thyme, incorporate chopped kalamata olives, and use white wine vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a Greek-style seafood appetizer.
• Asian Sesame Infusion: Substitute olive oil with sesame oil, add minced ginger and green onions, splash in rice vinegar, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for an east Asian flavor profile.
• Smoky Chipotle Version: Include chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, use lime juice instead of lemon, mix in cilantro, and add a touch of agave nectar for a sweet and spicy Mexican-inspired pickled shrimp.

Curious About Pickled Shrimp? Here’s What To Know

• What makes pickled shrimp different from regular cooked shrimp?

Pickled shrimp are marinated in a tangy vinegar-based mixture that infuses them with rich, zesty flavors and helps preserve their texture. The pickling process adds a bright, acidic taste that makes them more complex and interesting than standard cooked shrimp.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to completely thaw them and pat them dry before cooking. Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work well if they are high-quality and properly thawed.

• How long will pickled shrimp stay good in the refrigerator?

Pickled shrimp can stay fresh in a sealed container for up to 5-7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Always use clean utensils when serving to prevent introducing bacteria and extend the shelf life.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted to your preference. If you want less spice, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them completely. For more heat, you can increase the quantity to suit your taste.

Pickled Shrimp Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern coastal charm meets zesty pickled shrimp in this quick, tangy delicacy that sings of summer gatherings. Crisp, garlicky, and delightfully spiced, these marinated crustaceans promise to elevate any appetizer spread with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (675 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasoning and Aromatics:

• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf

Liquid and Additional Ingredients:

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons capers (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a spacious pot with water, infusing it with Old Bay seasoning and zesty lemon slices. Gently submerge the shrimp, allowing them to transform from translucent to vibrant pink within 2-3 minutes.
2. Quickly transfer the cooked shrimp into an ice bath, halting the cooking process and preserving their delicate texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Create a harmonious marinade by whisking together tangy vinegar, rich olive oil, bright lemon juice, and robust Dijon mustard. Incorporate minced garlic, finely sliced red onion, fiery red pepper flakes, aromatic black peppercorns, fragrant bay leaf, fresh parsley, and briny capers.
4. Lovingly fold the cooled shrimp into the marinade, ensuring each morsel is generously coated with the vibrant mixture. Transfer the ensemble into a clean glass container, completely submerging the shrimp in the liquid.
5. Seal the container and nestle it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to mingle and intensify for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight yields the most complex taste profile. Occasionally stir the mixture to promote even flavor distribution.
6. When ready to serve, present the pickled shrimp chilled as an elegant appetizer. Pair with crisp crackers, scatter atop a crisp salad, or showcase as the star of a sophisticated seafood platter.

Notes

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your pickled dish.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery during the boiling process.
• Use an ice bath immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and maintain the shrimp’s tender, delicate texture.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level and suit different spice preferences.
• Swap out capers for chopped green olives if you want a slightly different briny flavor profile.
• Store the pickled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain maximum freshness.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon to create unique flavor variations of this classic pickled seafood dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg