Unleash the vibrant essence of shrimp cocktail with a delightful twist perfect for any gathering, and best of all, it's ready in under 30 minutes. Say goodbye to the traditional poaching method—our secret? Roasting. This modern take infuses the classic with even more flavor, pairing succulent shrimp with a bold horseradish-forward sauce, creating an ideal winter-season appetizer. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, this revamped shrimp cocktail is tailored to elevate your snacking experience.
Roasting Magic:
Ditch the conventional poaching—roasting at a high temperature unlocks the natural sweetness of each shrimp, ensuring a succulent bite. Simply season with extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to your liking. Flip each piece for even cooking, and in just 6 minutes, you'll have perfectly roasted shrimp, bursting with flavor.
The Aioli Wonder:
Our aioli mirrors the punchy allure of classic cocktail sauce but with an added horseradish kick. Crafted swiftly with store-bought mayonnaise, horseradish, and a dash of lemon juice, it's a flavor explosion. Opt for 2 tablespoons of white horseradish for fiery zest, or start with less for a milder option. Elevate the final touch with a sprinkle of lemon zest to awaken the senses. Craving the familiar? Introduce a hint of ketchup for that perfect balance of horseradish and sweetness.
Serving Spectacle:
This culinary masterpiece can be savored warm or chilled—the secret lies in letting the sauce mingle in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Watch as the flavors dance harmoniously, enhancing the overall experience.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 c. mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp. prepared horseradish
- 1/4 tsp. finely grated lemon zest, plus 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 lb. medium shrimp, peeled, deveined
- 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
Step 1: Aioli Creation In a small bowl, blend mayonnaise, horseradish, and lemon juice. Chill for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 400°. Pat the shrimp dry, toss them in oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Roasting Brilliance Arrange the seasoned shrimp on a foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring space between each. Roast for 5 to 6 minutes, turning halfway, until they boast a delightful pink hue and are thoroughly cooked.
Step 4: Serve in Style Transfer your perfectly roasted shrimp to a platter. Serve at your preferred temperature—room temperature or chilled. Crown the aioli with lemon zest and parsley, season with pepper, and present alongside your culinary masterpiece.