Elevate your summer gatherings with a stunning platter of Roasted Shrimp Cocktail, a recipe perfected for effortless entertaining. This delightful dish, proudly sponsored by our friends at Stonewall Kitchen, promises to be a memorable addition to any menu. All opinions and culinary insights shared are, as always, our own.
When the warmer months arrive, and the desire for light yet satisfying fare takes over, Shrimp Cocktail invariably claims its spot in our recipe repertoire. It’s a true classic, an elegant appetizer that sets the stage for a sophisticated seafood dinner or serves as a refreshing al fresco delight on balmy summer evenings. While traditional methods often involve steaming or poaching shrimp, we believe in giving this timeless dish a modern twist that amplifies its flavor and appeal.
Our preferred method? Roasting. This innovative approach transforms ordinary shrimp into something truly extraordinary. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp, kissed by heat, developing a richer, more concentrated flavor that steaming simply can’t achieve. Paired with our bold Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce and a luxurious Roasted Garlic Remoulade, this Roasted Shrimp Cocktail isn’t just an appetizer—it’s an experience, guaranteed to be a hit with every guest.
Crafting Restaurant-Quality Seafood at Home with Stonewall Kitchen
One of the true joys of cooking, especially for entertaining, is discovering ingredients that simplify the process without compromising on quality or flavor. Stonewall Kitchen products epitomize this philosophy. Their meticulously crafted gourmet selections allow home cooks to infuse their dishes with a sophisticated flair, making restaurant-quality meals an achievable reality right in your own kitchen.
Our pantry boasts a dedicated “Stonewall section,” consistently stocked with their exquisite offerings, ready to transform any impromptu gathering into a gourmet affair. Their commitment to quality and exceptional taste is unwavering, which is why we were thrilled to learn about the exciting partnership between Stonewall Kitchen and the esteemed Legal Sea Foods. Both brands have long been titans in the food industry, revered for their dedication to culinary excellence. This collaboration brings together two powerhouses, ensuring that premium seafood ingredients and accompaniments are more accessible than ever for the home chef.
From the zesty kick of cocktail sauces to the creamy richness of tartar sauces, and from vibrant vinaigrettes to robust marinades, the Legal Sea Foods by Stonewall Kitchen line provides an unparalleled collection of staples. These products empower you to cook and serve seafood with the confidence and finesse of a seasoned culinary professional, making every bite a testament to gourmet quality and convenience.
Elevate Your Dish: Irresistible Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Dipping Sauces
No shrimp cocktail, roasted or otherwise, is complete without the perfect dipping sauce. For this recipe, we’re not just offering one, but two distinct and equally delectable options to tantalize your taste buds. This dual-sauce approach ensures there’s something for everyone, adding an extra layer of gourmet appeal to your platter.
The Zesty Kick: Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce
Our first star is the Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce, a spirited twist on the classic. At its heart lies the exceptional House Cocktail Sauce from the Legal Sea Foods by Stonewall Kitchen line. This sauce is a marvel on its own, striking an exquisite balance between vibrant tang and a gentle heat, exactly what you’d expect from a top-tier restaurant. Its quality straight from the jar makes it an indispensable base for culinary creativity.
To transform it into our Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce, we simply add a dash of celery salt, a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth, and a tablespoon of vodka for that signature cocktail essence. The result is a sauce that genuinely echoes the complex and invigorating flavors of its namesake drink – a vibrant, spicy, and tangy accompaniment that perfectly complements the rich flavor of roasted shrimp. You can adjust the heat with an optional dash of your favorite hot sauce and fresh cracked black pepper to suit your preference, making it uniquely yours.
The Creamy Indulgence: Roasted Garlic Remoulade
For those who prefer a more mellow yet equally flavorful experience, our Roasted Garlic Remoulade offers a luxurious counterpoint. This creamy, savory sauce provides a cooling contrast to the zesty shrimp, making it an irresistible choice for dipping.
The secret to its robust flavor profile is Stonewall Kitchen’s Roasted Garlic Mustard. This gourmet mustard provides a deep, mellow garlic flavor without the effort of roasting garlic from scratch – a true time-saver for busy hosts. We whisk this flavorful mustard with a rich mayonnaise (Stonewall Kitchen’s Farmhouse Mayo is a personal favorite for its superior texture and taste), brightened by fresh lemon juice and a hint of Worcestershire. Finely minced capers add a briny pop, while snipped chives or fresh parsley introduce a fresh, herbaceous note. A touch of hot sauce, to taste, can add a subtle warmth without overpowering the delicate garlic and herb flavors.
Whether you choose to serve one sauce or both, offering guests this dynamic duo of dipping options elevates the Roasted Shrimp Cocktail from a simple appetizer to an epicurean platter. Each sauce provides a distinct flavor journey, ensuring every bite is a delightful discovery.
Mastering the Art of Roasting Shrimp for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Roasting shrimp might not be the most conventional method for shrimp cocktail, but it is undeniably superior in delivering unparalleled flavor and texture. The high heat of the oven caramelizes the natural sugars in the shrimp, creating a delicate crust and a tender, juicy interior that steaming or poaching simply cannot replicate. This section delves into the specifics of selecting and preparing your shrimp for optimal results.
Selecting the Perfect Shrimp Size for an Impressive Presentation
The size of your shrimp significantly impacts both the cooking time and the final presentation. For a truly impressive and substantial appetizer, we highly recommend using colossal shrimp, typically labeled U/12 to U/15 (meaning 12 to 15 shrimp per pound). These magnificent shrimp are exceptionally meaty, offering a satisfying bite and looking stunning arranged on a platter.
Should colossal shrimp be unavailable or if you prefer a slightly smaller size, 16/20 count (16 to 20 shrimp per pound) or 26/30 count (26 to 30 shrimp per pound) are excellent alternatives. However, we advise against going smaller than these counts for roasted shrimp cocktail, as very small shrimp can overcook quickly and become tough. Larger shrimp retain their tenderness beautifully through the roasting process.
For a comprehensive guide on understanding shrimp sizes and counts, be sure to consult our Shrimp Sizes quick guide. Regardless of size, always purchase shrimp raw. Prior to roasting, remember to peel and devein them, but always leave the tails on. The tails not only contribute to an elegant presentation but also provide a convenient handle for dipping.
Seasoning and Roasting Techniques for Flawless Shrimp
The beauty of roasted shrimp lies in its simplicity and ability to absorb flavors. To enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, we season them with a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a secret weapon from our spice drawer: Stonewall Kitchen’s Maine Seafood Rub. This versatile rub has been a staple in our kitchen for years, bringing a harmonious blend of spices that complements everything from hearty chowders and grilled fish steaks to seafood boils and, of course, these delectable roasted shrimp.
Once tossed with the oil and rub, the shrimp are ready for their quick transformation in a hot oven. Preheat your oven to a robust 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even cooking and optimal browning. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, so use two sheets if necessary. Depending on their size, the shrimp will only require 8 to 10 minutes to roast to perfection. They’re done when they turn opaque and blush a beautiful pink hue. Be mindful not to overcook them, as this can lead to a rubbery texture.
While traditional shrimp cocktail is always served chilled, roasted shrimp offers the delightful flexibility of being served either chilled or slightly warm. Both temperatures yield a truly satisfying experience, allowing the robust flavors of the shrimp and their seasonings to shine through. Experiment to discover your personal preference!
This Roasted Shrimp Cocktail recipe serves as an exceptional starter for any seafood dinner menu. For a truly show-stopping summer meal at home, consider pairing it with our Crab Stuffed Flounder, another recipe that beautifully incorporates some of these fantastic Stonewall Kitchen ingredients. This combination promises a memorable culinary journey for you and your guests.
All of the featured Stonewall Kitchen family products mentioned in this post are readily available for purchase. You can find them at their charming Company Stores, through their extensive network of local retailers, or conveniently online. We’ve included links to specific product pages within the recipe card for easy access, and you can also visit their Store Locator to find a Stonewall Kitchen retailer near you.
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Two Dipping Sauces
Amanda Biddle
15 minutes
10 minutes
30 minutes
25 minutes
12
servings (2 shrimp)
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
-
2
pounds
raw shrimp
peeled and deveined, tails on* -
2
tablespoons
extra virgin olive oil -
2-3
teaspoons
Stonewall Kitchen Maine Seafood Rub
(depending on how zesty you like your shrimp)
For the Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce
-
1
jar
Legal Sea Foods by Stonewall Kitchen House Cocktail Sauce
(8.75 ounces) -
1
tablespoon
vodka -
½
teaspoon
Worcestershire sauce -
¼
teaspoon
celery salt -
hot sauce
, to taste (optional) - cracked black pepper
For the Roasted Garlic Remoulade
-
1
cup
mayonnaise -
2
tablespoons
Stonewall Kitchen Roasted Garlic Mustard
-
1-2
teaspoons
fresh lemon juice
(to taste) -
½
teaspoon
Worcestershire sauce -
2
teaspoons
capers
, drained and minced -
1
tablespoon
snipped chives or chopped fresh parsley -
hot sauce
, to taste
Instructions
Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce
- Whisk together cocktail sauce, vodka, Worcestershire sauce, and celery salt. Season to taste with hot sauce, if you like your cocktail sauce spicier, and cracked black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Make the Roasted Garlic Remoulade
- Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, capers, and chives. Add hot sauce to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Roast the Shrimp
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Toss shrimp with extra virgin olive oil and Maine seafood seasoning. Spread into a single layer on the pan and roast for 8-10 minutes, until pink and opaque.
- Serve warm or chilled with lemon wedges and Bloody Mary Cocktail Sauce, Roasted Garlic Remoulade, or both for your guests to try!
Notes
Nutrition Estimate
Calories:
99
kcal
|
Protein:
15
g
|
Fat:
3
g
|
Cholesterol:
190
mg
|
Sodium:
639
mg
|
Potassium:
60
mg
|
Vitamin C:
3.1
mg
|
Calcium:
110
mg
|
Iron:
1.6
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Please note that our recipes have been developed using the US Customary measurement system and have not been tested for high altitude/elevation cooking and baking.
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