Description
This Cajun Shrimp Cocktail recipe features succulent shrimp roasted to perfection with a zesty Cajun seasoning and lemon zest. Served with a tangy, spicy homemade cocktail sauce, this dish makes a quick, flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1½ pounds raw, shell-on shrimp (or 1 pound shrimp already peeled and deveined, 21-25 size or larger)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Zest of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Cocktail Sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (Louisiana or Crystal recommended)
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
- MIX: Combine all ingredients for the cocktail sauce—ketchup, horseradish, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and lemon zest—in a bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- PREP: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the middle. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done, then pat them dry with paper towels. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and lemon zest until evenly coated. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out.
- ROAST: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the shrimp for 5 to 10 minutes, or until they turn an opaque pink color and are just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender and juicy.
- SERVE: Transfer the roasted shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve the shrimp hot or chilled alongside the prepared cocktail sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or hot sauce in the cocktail sauce.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking for best texture.
- You can prepare the cocktail sauce a day ahead to deepen the flavor.
- To save time, you may use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp, adjusting the amount to 1 pound as suggested.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for an elegant appetizer presentation.
