From spicy skewers to crispy corn cakes and chilled salads, these shrimp appetizers bring bright, briny flavor to any meal or party menu.
1/35
Party Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
The marinade for this dish makes the shrimp so flavorful, you won't even need a dipping sauce. Even those who claim they don’t like shellfish really dig this appetizer. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 shrimp: 14 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
2/35
Hot Creole Shrimp Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
I came across a recipe for crawfish dip, and it sounded delicious, but we don't have a lot of crawfish available in my area. I'm a big fan of shrimp, so I used that instead. The dish has become a family favorite. —Jill Burwell, Renton, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 136 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 217mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
3/35
Shrimp Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
Tender, well-cooked shrimp is paired with a flavorful sauce made with sweet ketchup, tart lemon juice, sharp horseradish and savory Worcestershire sauce for an easy and delicious dish. The best part—it only takes 30 minutes to make! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 ounce cooked shrimp with about 2 teaspoons sauce: 42 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
4/35
Easy Coconut Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Guests are always impressed when I serve these restaurant-quality shrimp. A selection of sauces served alongside adds the perfect touch. —Tacy Holliday Germantown, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 shrimp: 171 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 76mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
5/35
Shrimp Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
Living near the coast, I have a great advantage when it comes to getting seafood. This recipe is special and light and so easy to make! —Robert Logan, Clayton, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 48 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 63mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
6/35
Shrimp-Stuffed Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
We enjoy these yummy mushrooms every Christmas and when we have company for dinner. With bits of shrimp in the stuffing, they really stand out from other recipes. —Jacqui Beal, Dallas, Oregon
7/35
Crab-Stuffed Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
“This wonderful low-fat treat is delicious, full of flavor, and its presentation makes it especially appetizing. We love it.” Shirley Leasock - Rockwood, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 36 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
8/35
Shrimp Dip with Cream Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This tasty spread, prepared with softened cream cheese, is a beautiful pale salmon color. A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce provides just the right amount of zest.
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 59 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
9/35
Firecracker Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
These delightful firecracker shrimp are coated in a sweet and spicy glaze. The marinade comes together in moments for sizzling shrimp skewers. —Mary Tallman, Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 shrimp: 27 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 30mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
10/35
Greek Shrimp Canapes
From the Recipe Creator:
I grew up by the ocean and then moved to a landlocked state. I wanted to show people in my area how to easily cook seafood, and this is the recipe I came up with. I think it’s safe to say it has become a neighborhood favorite. —Amy Harris, Springville, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 68 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 139mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
11/35
Shrimp Shumai
Nutrition Facts:
1 dumpling: 48 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 207mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
12/35
Boiled Shrimp
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked shrimp: 144 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 235mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat.
13/35
Fresh Shrimp and Avocado Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a fan of shrimp, and my family loves nachos. When I combined those favorites and added fresh avocado, the result was a cool yet satisfying snack. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 264 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.
14/35
Shrimp Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This light, colorful shrimp salad combines the refreshing flavors of lemon juice, fresh dill, celery and red onion with tender shrimp and creamy mayo. Pair it with a side of bread, or bulk up the salad by adding tomatoes, avocados and cucumbers to the mix! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 423 calories, 32g fat (5g saturated fat), 222mg cholesterol, 572mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein.
15/35
Shrimp and Cucumber Canapes
From the Recipe Creator:
These cute stacks really stand out in a holiday appetizer buffet. Tasty, cool and crunchy, they come together in a snap. —Ashley Nochlin, Port St. Lucie, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 50 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
16/35
Shrimp Spring Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
This refreshing spring roll is stuffed with tender shrimp, aromatic cilantro, crisp lettuce leaves, chewy rice noodles and crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots and cabbage. Pair it with the slightly spicy peanut sauce, or dip it in a sweet chili sauce for something tamer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
17/35
Shrimp Tartlets
From the Recipe Creator:
Mini tart shells filled with a cream cheese mixture, topped with seafood sauce and shrimp make for a picture-perfect, tasty appetizer. You could also serve several as a fast, light meal. —Gina Hutchison, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 tartlet: 61 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
18/35
Salt and Pepper Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
This simple Chinese dish is packed with flavor. I like to cook and serve the shrimp with shells on—they keep the meat inside super moist and make for a nice, crispy bite. You can remove the shells before cooking if you prefer; just keep the tails on. —Jeannie Chen, Brooklyn, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 259 calories, 16g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 873mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein.
19/35
Shrimp Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no secret to this creamy seafood appetizer—it's simply delicious! I originally tasted it at a friend's house, and I liked it so much that I requested the recipe. It's since become a family favorite. —Brenda Buhler, Abbotsford, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 136 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
20/35
Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Blue cheese, bacon and basil pack big flavor into a couple of bites. To save time, you can assemble the skewers the night before and then serve them hot from the broiler on the day. —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 88 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
21/35
Spicy Shrimp Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Radishes add a wonderful crunch to this colorful salsa that is also superb over grilled fish. There's just enough jalapeno to give flavor without much of the heat. —Mary Beth Relyea, Canastota, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 38 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
22/35
Shrimp and Cucumber Rounds
From the Recipe Creator:
I always make these appetizers for our get-togethers. They're easy to prepare and a snappy addition to any party. —Kelly Alaniz, Eureka, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 20 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 38mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
23/35
Chipotle Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this recipe for a Cinco de Mayo party, and it was a hit! It’s so easy, yet has a serious wow factor. The creamy dipping sauce mellows out the shrimp’s heat perfectly. —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 shrimp with 1 teaspoon sauce: 27 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 47mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
24/35
Tortellini & Shrimp Skewers with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
These fresh skewers and tasty sauce will have guests nibbling all night! —Cacie Biddle, Bridgeport, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer with 1 tablespoon sauce: 88 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 112mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
25/35
Shrimp Salad Appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
This refreshing hors d'oeuvre has gained a big following since a friend shared her family recipe with me. My son says it best: The celery and shrimp are so good together. —Solie Kimble, Kanata, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 31 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
26/35
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Bacon and shrimp make a great team in this super-easy party appetizer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 93 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
27/35
Barbecued Shrimp & Peach Kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
Shrimp grilled with peaches and green onions really sets off fireworks! The spicy seasonings even helped me win a ribbon at a county fair. —Jen Smallwood, Portsmouth, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 170 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 289mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fruit.
28/35
Tzatziki Shrimp Cucumber Rounds
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this recipe with what I had on hand one night, and now it’s one of my husband’s favorites! The bacon-wrapped shrimp, garlicky sauce and burst of cool cuke flavor make this a crowd pleaser. —Shannon Rose Trelease, East Hampton, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 30 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
29/35
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
Chunks of cucumber, tomatoes, cilantro and avocado combined with shrimp in a tomato base sauce create this refreshing shrimp cocktail that’s bursting with flavors. You’ll even get a little heat from the Tobasco sauce. Serve it with saltine crackers to compliment the sweet tomato flavors. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 105 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 413mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
30/35
Coconut Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Jumbo shrimp is big on flavor when field editor Marie Hattrup from the Dalles, Oregon gives it a tropical twist. Coconut offers subtle sweetness, and the fruity salsa is delightful as a dip.
Nutrition Facts:
1 shrimp with 1 tablespoon salsa: 141 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
31/35
Grilled Seasoned Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
A marinade using balsamic vinegar, lemon juice and Italian dressing boosts the flavor of these tender shrimp. Diane Harrison of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania serves the delightful bites chilled.
Nutrition Facts:
3 each: 267 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 259mg cholesterol, 470mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 2 fat, 1/2 fruit.
32/35
Shrimp Lover Squares
From the Recipe Creator:
At our house, these delicious shrimp squares are a must during family movie and game nights. —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 square: 109 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 190mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
33/35
Prosciutto Shrimp with Tropical Mango Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Prosciutto and melon are a quintessential pairing. I took things a few steps further by adding an assortment of other fresh ingredients, including mango, pineapple and papaya. Finally, add shrimp and you’ve got yourself one tasty starter. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrapped shrimp with 1 tablespoons salsa: 65 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 170mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
34/35
Shrimp & Feta Cucumber Rounds
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the contrasting tastes and textures of these rounds. Each bite balances the refreshing burst and crunch of cucumber with the rich flavor and creaminess of the filling.—Donna Pochoday, Morristown, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 41 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
35/35
Shrimp Corn Cakes with Soy Mayo
From the Recipe Creator:
Feel free to add hot sauce to the dip that accompanies these savory corn cakes. —Katty Chiong, Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn cake with 1 teaspoon sauce: 109 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
Shrimp Appetizers FAQ
What are the best sauces for shrimp appetizers?
The best sauces for shrimp appetizers are tangy, creamy or spicy, like cocktail sauce, remoulade or sweet chili sauce, which all perk up the mild taste of shrimp. The additional char and smoky taste of grilled shrimp goes well with herb-forward butters or dips, like chimichurri sauce. For parties, offer a few options with different bases, ranging from sweet and fruity to tangy or mustardy, so there is something for everyone.
Are there make-ahead shrimp appetizers?
Yes, many shrimp appetizers, especially chilled recipes, can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before serving. Shrimp salads, salsas and dips all hold up well overnight in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Before serving, stir in fresh herbs and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper or a squeeze of lemon. Marinating shrimp for a few hours infuses flavor through each crustacean. Then, they are ready to be sauteed or threaded onto skewers and grilled or broiled when it’s time to eat.
Can I use frozen shrimp for appetizers?
Frozen shrimp is a convenient and reliable option for shrimp appetizers. To cook frozen shrimp, first thaw and dry the shrimp to prevent oil splatters. You can thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge or under cold running water, if you’re short on time, but avoid microwaving, which can make them rubbery. Once thawed, spread the shrimp in a single layer on a tray or large plate and pat dry so they cook evenly and brown well when grilled, roasted or sauteed.
