Smoked & Seared: The Ultimate Grilled Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

While the classic shrimp cocktail is a staple of elegant dinner parties and summer gatherings, taking it to the grill transforms this cold appetizer into a warm, smoky sensation that truly excites the palate. Cooking shrimp on the Arteflame grill introduces a depth of flavor that boiling simply cannot achieve. The high heat of the plancha cooktop sears the seafood instantly, locking in natural juices while creating a delicious, caramelized crust. This method elevates the natural sweetness of the shrimp, contrasting perfectly with the zesty bite of a traditional horseradish-spiked sauce. By moving away from the traditional chilled preparation, you offer your guests a texture and temperature contrast that feels both rustic and sophisticated. This recipe is not just about cooking; it is about reinventing a classic by utilizing the unique searing capabilities of your wood-fired grill to create an unforgettable appetizer experience.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 2 lbs Jumbo Shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined (tails left on)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
• 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1 Lemon, cut into wedges for grilling

For the Zesty Cocktail Sauce

• 1 cup Ketchup (high quality)
• 2 tbsp Prepared Horseradish (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Hot Sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1/4 tsp Celery Salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Shrimp

1. Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp ensures a better sear on the grill.
2. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper over the shrimp. Toss gently until the shrimp are uniformly coated in the seasoning blend. Let them sit for 15 minutes while you prep the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Cocktail Sauce

1. While the grill heats up, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and celery salt in a small bowl.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Taste and adjust the horseradish or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
3. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. Allow it to burn down slightly until the cooktop reaches searing temperature.
2. Lightly oil the flat steel cooktop to prevent sticking. You want a medium-high heat zone, generally found near the center of the cooktop but not directly at the edge of the fire pit.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp and Lemons

1. Place the shrimp individually on the flat cooktop. Do not overcrowd them; give them space to sear.
2. Place the lemon wedges cut-side down on the cooktop as well.
3. Grill the shrimp for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side. You are looking for a golden-brown crust and an opaque, pink interior. The shape should resemble a loose "C" rather than a tight "O" (which indicates overcooking).
4. Remove the shrimp and lemons immediately once cooked.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Arrange the warm grilled shrimp on a platter surrounding the bowl of cocktail sauce.
2. Garnish with the charred lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while the shrimp are still warm for the best flavor contrast.

Tips

Grilling shrimp requires vigilance because they cook incredibly fast, especially on the high-heat steel surface of an Arteflame. The most important tip is to watch the color changes closely; the moment the shrimp turns pink and opaque, it is done. Leaving them on even a minute too long can result in a rubbery texture. Additionally, utilizing the different heat zones of the Arteflame is crucial. If your fire is roaring, keep the shrimp slightly further back from the center opening to avoid burning the seasoning before the meat is cooked. Leaving the tails on not only makes for a classic presentation but also provides a convenient handle for your guests, eliminating the need for forks. Finally, ensure your cooktop is well-seasoned and oiled right before placing the shrimp down to guarantee that perfect, non-stick sear that defines this cooking style.

Variations

This grilled shrimp cocktail recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various flavor profiles. For a Mexican Twist, swap the smoked paprika for chili powder and cumin, and mix some lime zest and cilantro into the cocktail sauce. If you prefer Asian Fusion, marinate the shrimp in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, and serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce instead of the traditional horseradish blend. For a Cajun Kick, generously coat the shrimp in a spicy Creole seasoning rub and add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also try a Garlic Butter finish by melting butter with minced garlic on the plancha and tossing the cooked shrimp in it right before serving. Lastly, for a Mediterranean Vibe, use oregano and lemon zest in the marinade and serve with a tzatziki dip.

Best pairings

To complement the smoky char of the shrimp and the sharp tang of the cocktail sauce, you need beverages and sides that offer a refreshing balance. A crisp, acidic white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio cuts through the horseradish heat beautifully. If you prefer beer, a light lager or a citrus-forward IPA pairs excellently with grilled seafood. For side dishes, consider grilling vegetables alongside the shrimp; charred asparagus spears or zucchini rounds seasoned with lemon pepper make for a healthy and cohesive plate. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also cleanse the palate between bites. If you are serving this as part of a larger BBQ spread, these shrimp serve as the perfect "Surf" to a ribeye or filet mignon "Turf," creating a luxurious dining experience right in your backyard.

Conclusion

Reimagining the shrimp cocktail for the grill breathes new life into a timeless favorite, proving that fire and smoke can enhance even the most delicate seafood. The Arteflame grill makes this process effortless, providing the perfect surface to achieve a restaurant-quality sear without the risk of shrimp falling through the grates. This dish strikes the perfect balance between hot and cold, savory and tangy, making it a standout appetizer for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or an intimate dinner under the stars, this warm, smoky version of shrimp cocktail is sure to impress your guests. It is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and packed with robust flavors that linger long after the last bite. Gather your ingredients, light the fire, and enjoy the ultimate outdoor cooking experience.