13 Quick Shrimp Recipes Perfect for Summer Gatherings

Shrimp is the ultimate crowd-pleaser when it comes to summer gatherings—light, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a beachside picnic, or a casual get-together with friends, these quick shrimp recipes are guaranteed to impress without keeping you tied to the stove. With their natural sweetness and delicate texture, shrimp dishes bring a refreshing touch to any summer menu, combining ease and elegance in every bite.

This collection of 13 quick shrimp recipes offers a variety of options to suit every taste and occasion. From zesty grilled shrimp skewers to vibrant shrimp salads and spicy sautés, you’ll find fast and flavorful ways to enjoy this seafood favorite. Each recipe is designed to be simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your guests and the sunshine.

Along with delicious recipes, you’ll discover tips on how to buy, peel, and cook shrimp perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for easy, fresh dishes to add to your summer repertoire, these recipes make entertaining a breeze while keeping your menu exciting and satisfying.

Get ready to dive into these quick shrimp creations that bring bright flavors and effortless style to your summer celebrations. Your next gathering just got a whole lot tastier!

Shrimp Caesar Salad Wraps

These Shrimp Caesar Salad Wraps are the perfect blend of fresh flavors and satisfying crunch. Combining juicy shrimp with crisp romaine lettuce and a creamy dressing, they’re not only tasty but also super easy to make. Ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these wraps deliver all the classic Caesar salad goodness in a fun, portable format.

With a zesty dressing, tender shrimp, and the crunch of lettuce all wrapped up, every bite is a party in your mouth! Plus, they can be made in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to summer recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup croutons, crushed

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté for about 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
2. Lay out the lettuce leaves, and drizzle Caesar dressing over them.
3. Add the cooked shrimp, sprinkle Parmesan cheese, and top with crushed croutons.
4. Wrap the lettuce around the filling tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Shrimp Caesar Salad Wraps!

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings fresh flavors to your table. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a satisfying dish that feels light and vibrant, perfect for summer dining.

This recipe is simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The zucchini noodles add a fun texture and a veggie boost, while the buttery garlic sauce ties everything together in a delicious way.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Stir in the zucchini noodles and lemon juice, tossing gently to combine. Cook for just 2-3 minutes until the noodles are slightly tender.
4. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut curry shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the warmth of curry spices. This recipe is both simple and quick, making it perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Whether you’re serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some crusty bread, the flavors are sure to impress.

The combination of fresh shrimp and vibrant vegetables creates a colorful meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoying a bowl of coconut curry shrimp feels like a mini-vacation with each bite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
2. Stir in the red curry paste, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.
3. Add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Season with soy sauce and lime juice.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and a burst of vibrant vegetables, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s super simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

The combination of fresh ingredients provides a satisfying crunch, while the shrimp adds a lovely seafood touch that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of avocado. Tossed with a zesty lime dressing, this salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing. It’s sure to impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen for too long!

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mixed salad greens
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and salad greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately for a fresh taste.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers are a fantastic way to bring bold flavors to your summer gatherings. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and juicy shrimp creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, this recipe is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu barbecues.

With a quick marinade and a few minutes on the grill, these skewers deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. They pair wonderfully with fresh salads or grilled veggies, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
4. Grill the Shrimp: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Shrimp Fried Rice with Vegetables

This Shrimp Fried Rice with Vegetables is a delightful dish that’s perfect for a summer meal. It’s packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, so it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

The combination of tender shrimp, colorful peppers, and sweet peas creates a beautiful and tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this fried rice is sure to please your crowd!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, peas, and carrots)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, making sure to break up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
5. Push the rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten egg into the empty space. Scramble the egg until fully cooked, then mix it into the rice.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, pour in the soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Spicy shrimp tacos with mango salsa are the perfect quick meal for summer gatherings. The shrimp are marinated in zesty spices, giving them a delightful kick. Paired with a fresh mango salsa, these tacos offer a burst of flavor that’s both sweet and savory, making them a sure hit with friends and family.

This recipe is not only simple to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. In just a few steps, you can have a delicious dish that’s perfect for any summer occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create these tasty tacos!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional: avocado slices for topping

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Mango Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix together the diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. Place a few shrimp on each tortilla and top with mango salsa. Add avocado slices if desired.
5. Serve: Enjoy your spicy shrimp tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side!

Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta

This Lemon Herb Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors with a quick cooking time. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs elevate the sweetness of the shrimp, making every bite refreshing and satisfying.

Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also sure to impress your guests. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp, lemon juice, and zest. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Sweet Chili Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Sweet chili shrimp lettuce wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of flavor without spending too much time in the kitchen. The tender shrimp is coated in a sweet and tangy chili sauce, offering an exciting taste that pairs perfectly with the crisp lettuce leaves. This dish is not only refreshing but also light, making it a great choice for summer gatherings.

These wraps are simple to prepare and can be ready in about 20 minutes. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or a fun appetizer when hosting friends. Just fill the lettuce leaves with shrimp and top with your favorite garnishes for an easy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 head of romaine or butter lettuce, leaves separated
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
2. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
3. Remove the skillet from heat. Take a lettuce leaf and place a few shrimp inside. Top with cilantro and green onions.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired, and serve immediately.

Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwiches

Shrimp Po’ Boy sandwiches are a delightful taste of the South, packed with juicy shrimp and a flavorful sauce. They’re light yet satisfying, making them perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe is simple to whip up, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

The combination of crispy shrimp and creamy dressing nestled in a soft roll creates a mouthwatering experience. Add in some fresh toppings, and you have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes for topping

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Shrimp: Remove shrimp from buttermilk and coat each piece in the cornmeal mixture.
4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Mix well.
6. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread sauce on hoagie rolls, add fried shrimp, and top with lettuce and tomatoes.
7. Serve: Enjoy your Shrimp Po’ Boy sandwiches warm!

Mediterranean Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl

This Mediterranean Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl is a light and refreshing dish perfect for summer. With juicy shrimp, fluffy quinoa, and a rainbow of fresh veggies, it delivers a burst of flavors that are both satisfying and healthy. Easy to prepare, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The combination of herbs, lemon, and feta cheese adds a zesty kick, while the quinoa provides a hearty base. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this bowl is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to combine.
4. Serve: Divide the mixture into bowls and enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Shrimp and Quinoa Bowl!

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus is a simple yet delightful dish perfect for summer evenings. The combination of juicy shrimp, tender asparagus, and rich garlic butter creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and light. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The sweet, succulent shrimp are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, while the asparagus adds a fresh crunch. This recipe not only looks vibrant on the plate but also bursts with flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means minimal cleanup!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender.
3. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet, followed by lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Shrimp Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro

This Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. The zing from the lime juice combined with the freshness of cilantro creates a light and vibrant flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Every bite of this ceviche bursts with the taste of crisp vegetables and succulent shrimp, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. Serve it up with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast that enhances the overall experience. It’s not just a dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the shrimp: In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink. Drain and let them cool.
2. Marinate the shrimp: Once cooled, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Add the lime juice, ensuring the shrimp is fully submerged. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add the vegetables: After marinating, stir in the diced tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Enjoy your ceviche with tortilla chips for a delicious crunch!

Final Thoughts
Shrimp is the perfect ingredient to keep your summer gatherings fresh, fun, and fuss-free. These 13 quick shrimp recipes combine simplicity and bold flavors, making them ideal for any event under the sun. Whip up these dishes in no time, and watch your guests come back for seconds—summer never tasted so good!