39 Best Summer Shrimp Recipes from Grilled to Pasta Salad

Warmer days are the perfect time to whip up some delicious and refreshing summer shrimp recipes that capture the season’s essence. Whether you’re firing up the grill or tossing together a quick pasta salad, shrimp is an incredibly versatile ingredient that pairs beautifully with all those vibrant summer flavors.

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The sun is shining, the breeze is gentle, and you’re enjoying a meal that’s bursting with fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and succulent shrimp. It’s all about keeping things light and easy so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time soaking up those sunny vibes with friends and family. Let’s dive into some of the best shrimp recipes for this summer!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

Quick and Easy Preparation: Most shrimp recipes can be made in 30 minutes or less, allowing you to enjoy your meal more and less time cooking on busy weeknights.
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients: These recipes highlight seasonal produce, such as tomatoes, corn, and herbs, ensuring that every bite is packed with vibrant flavors.
Health Benefits: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and essential nutrients, making these recipes a healthy choice for summer dining.
Versatile Pairings: Whether you prefer grilled, chilled, or sautéed shrimp, these recipes provide various options to enjoy as appetizers or main dishes.

Choosing The Right Shrimp For Your Recipes

When it comes to selecting shrimp for your summer dishes, freshness and size are key factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect shrimp:

Freshness is Crucial: Opt for shrimp that smells clean and has a mild sea scent—avoid anything with a strong fishy odor. If purchasing frozen shrimp, look for flash-frozen ones to lock in freshness.
Size Matters: The size of the shrimp can greatly impact your dish. Large shrimp (like jumbo or colossal) work best for grilling, while medium to small shrimp are ideal for pasta salads or shrimp stir-fry, as they can be distributed better throughout the dish.
Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised: If you have the choice, go for wild-caught shrimp for better flavor and sustainability. Farm-raised shrimp may be more affordable but have a different taste and texture.
Peel or Shell On Decide whether you want peeled shrimp for ease of cooking or shell-on for more flavor. Shells can add depth to broths or marinades for grilled dishes, while peeled shrimp is ready for quick preparation in salads and pasta.

Simple Shrimp Dishes

Creating simple shrimp dishes allows you to enjoy the delightful taste of seafood without the fuss. These recipes focus on minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it easy for anyone to whip up a satisfying meal. With a variety of cooking methods—from grilling to sautéing—these dishes showcase the succulent flavour of shrimp while remaining perfect for warm summer evenings.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp topped with rosemary with a slice of lemon on the side. — Lemon-Garlic Jumbo Shrimp. Image Credit: Kim Schob

Lemon-Garlic Jumbo Shrimp: This bright and zesty dish is perfect for summer. It combines the tang of lemon with the rich flavor of garlic to create a mouthwatering meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: This Garlic Butter Shrimp is a classic dish that’s rich, buttery, and full of delicious flavor, making it an ideal choice for a simple yet delicious and healthy dinner that everyone will love.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe: These Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, combining grilled shrimp with fresh toppings in warm tortillas.
Keto Grilled Firecracker Shrimp Recipe: The Keto Grilled Firecracker Shrimp Recipe is a spicy, low-carb option that’s bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for those on a keto diet.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw: These Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw pack a punch with bold spices and a refreshing slaw, making them a favorite for taco lovers.

Honey Lime Shrimp with Sriracha. Image Credit: Chew Out Loud

Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos: The Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos offer a zesty and tangy flavor profile that’s perfect for a quick and easy summer meal that everyone will love.
Blackened Shrimp Taco Bowls: These Blackened Shrimp Taco Bowls are a flavorful, deconstructed take on tacos. They feature bold blackened shrimp over a bed of fresh ingredients.
Honey Lime Shrimp with Sriracha: The Honey Lime Shrimp with Sriracha is a sweet and spicy dish that’s perfect for grilling, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
Air Fryer Baja Shrimp Tacos: These Air Fryer Baja Shrimp Tacos are a healthier take on classic Baja tacos, with crispy shrimp that are perfectly seasoned and quick to prepare.
Mexican Shrimp Bowl: The Mexican Shrimp Bowl is a colorful and hearty dish that’s full of bold flavors, featuring grilled shrimp over a bed of rice with fresh toppings.

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Fresh Shrimp Salads And Dips

As the temperatures rise, fresh shrimp salads and dips become the ideal choice for light and refreshing meals. These dishes not only highlight the delicious taste of shrimp but also incorporate vibrant, seasonal ingredients that tantalize the taste buds. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a quick lunch, these recipes showcase the versatility of shrimp in a variety of delightful and uncomplicated ways.

Shrimp dipped in a roasted garlic dip. — Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Roasted Garlic Dip. Image Credit: Kim Schob.

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Roasted Garlic Dip: This rich and creamy appetizer is perfect for sharing. It combines the savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender shrimp in a delicious dip that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Italian Cold Spaghetti Salad with Shrimp: This refreshing Italian Cold Spaghetti Salad with Shrimp is perfect for hot summer days. It’s light, flavorful, and ideal for serving at outdoor gatherings or as a quick, chilled meal.
Citrus and Sesame Shrimp Salad: This zesty Salad is a vibrant and healthy option. It combines fresh citrus flavors with a sesame twist, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Stuffed Avocado Shrimp Salad (Peruvian Palta Rellena): This Stuffed Avocado Shrimp Salad (Peruvian Palta Rellena) offers a creamy and delicious way to enjoy shrimp, perfect for a summer appetizer or a unique salad option.
Greek Shrimp Rice Salad Recipe: This Recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with fresh shrimp, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s great for picnics and potlucks.

Grilled Shrimp Salad. Image Credit: The Food Blog.

Grilled Shrimp Salad: This Grilled Shrimp Salad is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy shrimp on a bed of fresh greens, a perfect healthy shrimp recipe for a summer meal.
Shrimp Mango Salad: This tropical salad combines the sweetness of mango with the savory taste of shrimp, creating a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather.
Shrimp Remoulade Lettuce Cups: These light and tangy shrimp remoulade lettuce cups are perfect for an appetizer or a light meal. They feature shrimp in a flavorful remoulade sauce.
Shrimp Cucumber Salad: This Shrimp Cucumber Salad is a refreshing combination of shrimp and crisp cucumbers, making it a cool and satisfying dish for hot summer days.
Tzatziki Shrimp Recipe: This Greek-inspired dish pairs succulent shrimp with a creamy tzatziki sauce, perfect for a quick and tasty summer meal.

Shrimp Pasta Recipes

Shrimp pasta dishes marry the delicate, sweet flavors of shrimp with the comforting appeal of pasta, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, shrimp pasta recipes can be both versatile and uncomplicated. With a range of sauces and ingredient combinations, these recipes highlight the shrimp’s natural taste while providing a delicious balance of textures and flavors.

Shrimp Pasta With Vegetables. Image Credit: Quiche My Grits

Pasta with Zucchini and Shrimp: This Pasta with Zucchini and Shrimp is a light and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for summer, combining fresh zucchini and succulent shrimp with a simple yet delicious sauce.
Shrimp Pasta with Vegetables: This shrimp pasta recipe is packed with fresh veggies and tender shrimp, making it a great choice for a wholesome summer dinner.
Coconut Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese: This Coconut Shrimp Macaroni and Cheese adds a tropical twist to a classic comfort food, with the sweet and crunchy coconut shrimp complementing the creamy mac and cheese.
Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta: This favorite Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is a classic dish that’s light and full of flavor, with tender shrimp tossed in a garlic and white wine sauce over delicate pasta.
Garlic Shrimp Crostini: These Garlic Shrimp Crostini are a delightful appetizer, featuring juicy shrimp on crispy crostini with a hint of garlic, perfect for any summer gathering.
Crispy Gluten-Free Coconut Shrimp: This deliciously crunchy and sweet option is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
Shrimp Piccata: This Shrimp Piccata is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with bright lemon and caper flavors, ideal for a light summer dinner.
Grilled Shrimp Cocktail Pasta Salad: The Grilled Shrimp Cocktail Pasta Salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled shrimp with a cool pasta salad, making it a great dish for picnics and barbecues.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad With Cajun Spices: This shrimp macaroni salad with cajun spices is a flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad, with the kick of cajun spices adding extra depth to the creamy cajun shrimp dish.
Quinoa Pasta Salad with Shrimp Ceviche: The Quinoa Pasta Salad with Shrimp Ceviche is a unique and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer, blending the lightness of quinoa pasta with the zesty flavors of shrimp ceviche.

Shrimp With A Global Twist

Shrimp dishes can be found in cuisines worldwide, each bringing unique flavors and cooking techniques. Whether it’s spicy Asian stir-fries, rich Mediterranean stews, or zesty Latin American preparations, shrimp offers a versatile protein that adapts beautifully to a variety of global culinary styles. This section explores a selection of international shrimp recipes that showcase the diverse ways this beloved seafood can be enjoyed, ensuring there’s something for every palate and occasion.

Shrimp tacos on a white plate. — Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos. Image Credit: Kim Schob.

Cilantro Lime Sheet Pan Shrimp Tacos: The Cilantro Lime Sheet Pan Shrimp Tacos are a quick and flavorful option for taco night, featuring shrimp seasoned with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, all cooked conveniently on a sheet pan for easy cleanup.
Arroz Chaufa con Mariscos: The Arroz Chaufa con Mariscos is a Peruvian-inspired fried rice dish that combines shrimp and other seafood with bold Asian flavors, perfect for a flavorful and filling meal.
Kung Pao Shrimp: This Kung Pao Shrimp offers a spicy and savory dish that’s packed with the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine, making it a great option for a quick and tasty dinner.
Easy Thai Green Curry with Shrimp: This fragrant and creamy curry is full of fresh herbs and spices, offering a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen.
Mango Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado (Ceviche de Camaron y Mango): This Mango Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado (Ceviche de Camaron y Mango) is a refreshing and tropical dish that’s perfect for summer, featuring the sweetness of mango paired with zesty shrimp.

Shrimp Ceviche in a bowl. — Shrimp Ceviche. Image Credit: Chew Out Loud.

Shrimp Ceviche: The Shrimp Ceviche is a light and tangy dish that’s full of fresh flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or light meal on hot days.
Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp (Air Fryer): This Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp (Air Fryer) offers a crispy, spicy, and savory dish that’s easy to make at home with your air fryer, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp: The Spicy Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that combines zesty lemon with spicy garlic, making it a perfect choice for those who love a kick of heat in their meals.
Chimichurri Shrimp: The Chimichurri Shrimp is a flavorful and aromatic dish that features juicy shrimp tossed in a vibrant chimichurri sauce, making it a great option for a summer barbecue or light easy dinner.

Storing Fresh Shrimp

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and quality of your shrimp. Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp stay delicious and safe to eat:

Refrigerate Promptly: Fresh shrimp should be stored in the refrigerator immediately. Place it in a sealed container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent exposure to air and contaminants. For the best quality, aim to use fresh shrimp within one to two days.
Use Ice: If you’re not planning to use the shrimp immediately, consider placing it in a bowl of ice in the fridge. This will keep the shrimp cold and help preserve its freshness for longer.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you can’t use the shrimp right away, freezing is a great option. Place shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen shrimp can last up to six months but should be thawed in the refrigerator when you’re ready to use them.
Check for Signs of Spoilage: Always inspect your shrimp for any signs of spoilage, such as an overly strong fishy smell or a slimy texture. If it doesn’t smell fresh or appears discolored, discard it to avoid foodborne illness.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to complementing shrimp dishes, the right recipe pairings can elevate your dining experience. Here are some dinner ideas to help you craft an outstanding meal:

Light and Fresh Sides: Opt for salads made with crisp greens, seasonal vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette. This complements the lightness of shrimp and adds a refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
Zesty Grains: Consider serving shrimp with sides like lemon—or herb-infused quinoa, couscous, or rice pilaf. These grains absorb flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying base for your meal.
Herbaceous Flavours: Incorporate fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, or parsley into your recipes. They enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness and bring a vibrant touch to the plate.
Citrus Accents: Pair shrimp with citrus recipes, such as orange or lime-infused sauces, marinades, or desserts. The acidity brightens the dish and perfectly balances the flavors.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Add a medley of grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables to your table. They offer a delightful texture and earthy taste that complements the tender, succulent shrimp.

FAQs

How do I know if the shrimp is fresh?

Fresh shrimp should be firm to the touch, have a mild ocean scent, and appear translucent. Avoid shrimp that have a strong fishy smell or a slimy texture, as these may indicate spoilage.

Can I use frozen shrimp in recipes?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be used directly in recipes after thawing. Just ensure you thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for quicker results.

What are some non-seafood alternatives for shrimp recipes?

If you’re looking for non-seafood alternatives, chicken, tofu, or tempeh can work well in many shrimp recipes. These options absorb flavors beautifully and can provide similar textures when seasoned correctly.

Is it safe to eat shrimp with shells on?

Yes, eating shrimp with shells on is safe and can enhance flavor. Many recipes, especially those cooked in their shells, retain moisture and add richness.

How should I season shrimp for grilling?

For grilling, you can marinate shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices. A simple blend of salt, pepper, and paprika also works well to enhance their natural flavor without overpowering it.