Grilled Shrimp Cocktail: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Appetizer

Ready to elevate your appetizer game? This Grilled Shrimp Cocktail isn’t your average party starter. By tossing shrimp on the grill instead of steaming or boiling, you infuse them with irresistible charred flavor that pairs strikingly well with a homemade cocktail sauce. Whether you're hosting a weekend cookout or just want a light and flavorful dish to enjoy with drinks, this recipe delivers in both taste and presentation. Made specially for your Arteflame grill setup, this dish is approachable, quick to prepare, and absolutely memorable.

Perfect for seafood lovers and grill masters alike, this recipe combines fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, and that unmistakable magic only fire can provide. Let’s dive into how to create this sensational appetizer!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Cocktail Sauce

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (more if you like it spicy)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 dash hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the shrimp

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and toss until fully coated. Set aside to marinate while you preheat the grill.

Step 2: Preheat your Arteflame grill

1. Light your Arteflame grill and allow it to reach medium-high heat (approximately 400°F).
2. Ensure the griddle surface is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the shrimp

1. Place the shrimp directly on the hot grill surface.
2. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and develop light char marks.
3. Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.

Step 4: Make the cocktail sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and optional hot sauce.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

1. Arrange grilled shrimp on a platter around a bowl of cocktail sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for added brightness.

Tips

For the best grilled shrimp cocktail, keeping a few simple techniques in mind makes all the difference. Here’s how to make your setup more flavorful and foolproof:

• Use jumbo shrimp for better grill performance and easier handling.
• Don't overcook the shrimp—pull them off the grill as soon as they’re opaque and slightly firm.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if you're using them to prevent burning.
• Grill lemon halves for a smoky citrus garnish.
• Make your sauce ahead of time to let flavors meld deeper.

Variations

Looking to mix things up? This grilled shrimp cocktail is highly adaptable. Here are a few exciting variations for flavor and presentation:

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning for extra heat and Southern flair.
• Tropical Twist: Marinate shrimp in pineapple juice, lime and chili powder before grilling.
• Garlic Butter Flavor: Finish with melted garlic-herb butter after grilling.
• Cilantro Lime Version: Use fresh cilantro and lime zest in your marinade.
• Tequila-Lime Shrimp: Add tequila and lime juice to the marinade for a cocktail-inspired twist.

Best pairings

Pair your grilled shrimp cocktail creatively to turn it into a standout element of your spread. It works well with drinks and dishes that balance its freshness and heat:

• Cold pilsner or light lager: Refreshing and subtle to let the shrimp shine.
• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, citrus-driven, and great with seafood.
• Spicy guacamole or mango salsa: Adds complexity and contrasting textures.
• Grilled corn salad or coleslaw: Cool side dishes that complement the heat.
• Garlic bread or crostini: Perfect for dipping into leftover cocktail sauce.

Conclusion

This grilled shrimp cocktail recipe is proof that summer appetizers can be both elegant and easy. By swapping the steaming pot for your Arteflame grill, you unlock a whole new level of smoky flavor and charred texture that elevates shrimp to center stage. Whether you're crafting a backyard menu or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this dish delivers bold, fresh, and unforgettable flavor.

With a few pro tips and creative variations, you can make this dish uniquely yours every single time. Serve it with a chilled drink, and you've nailed appetizer perfection.