As I unsealed a jar of Southern Louisiana Pickled Shrimp, the air was instantly filled with a zesty aroma that whisked me away to sun-soaked Gulf shores. Bright, lemony, and perfectly seasoned, this easy recipe turns simple shrimp into a show-stopping appetizer that’s bound to impress. Ideal for cookouts and casual gatherings, these marinated morsels meld together rich flavors with minimal effort, making prep a breeze. With each bite, you’ll savor the tangy infusion that intensifies as they marinate—a perfect balance of zest and spice that complements everything from crispy baguettes to fresh salads. Ready to take your snacking game to the next level? Let’s dive into this classic recipe that will have your guests clamoring for the last shrimp!
Why is Louisiana Pickled Shrimp a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This recipe delivers bold, tangy notes that merge perfectly with succulent shrimp, ensuring each bite is a flavor explosion.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy tailgate, Louisiana Pickled Shrimp is sure to impress your guests and spark lively conversations.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone, on toasted baguettes, or toss it in a zesty salad for a refreshing twist. For more great appetizers, check out our Boom Boom Shrimp.
Make-Ahead Advantage: The longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets—making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time and stress-free on the day of the event.
Southern Charm: Bring a taste of the South to your table and enjoy the warm hospitality known in Southern cooking. Expand your culinary repertoire and relish this classic recipe!
Louisiana Pickled Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Gulf Shrimp – Cooked, peeled & deveined shrimp provide the main protein for this dish; fresh is preferred, but frozen works when fresh is unavailable.
For the Marinade
• Lemons (2) – Adds bright acidity; one lemon is sliced, while the other is juiced and zested for added freshness.
• Sweet Vidalia Onion (1 small) – Sliced thinly, it contributes a lovely sweetness and depth to the marinade.
• Olive Oil (⅔ cup) – Acts as the base of the marinade, adding richness that complements the acidity.
• White Wine Vinegar (⅓ cup) – Supplies necessary acidity that enhances the overall flavors.
• Creole Seasoning (1 tablespoon) – Provides the signature flavor profile that makes this Louisiana Pickled Shrimp truly special.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring a well-balanced taste.
• Minced Garlic (1 teaspoon) – Adds a depth of pungency that rounds out the marinade.
• Granulated Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the flavors.
• Mustard Seeds (½ teaspoon) – Introduces a mild spice and appealing textural interest.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Dried Parsley (½ teaspoon) – Offers a subtle herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Bay Leaves (4) – Fosters aromatic flavor infusion throughout the marinade.
• Worcestershire Sauce (splash) – Adds a savory depth to the overall flavor profile.
Embrace this classic Louisiana Pickled Shrimp recipe and savor how easy it is to create a dish that truly shines at any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Louisiana Pickled Shrimp
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Louisiana Pickled Shrimp. Slice one lemon thinly, ensuring each piece is even for optimal flavor infusion. Zest the second lemon, then juice it, setting aside the juice. Next, take a small sweet Vidalia onion and slice it thinly; this way, the onion will absorb the marinade beautifully, contributing to the dish’s sweetness.
Step 2: Make Marinade
In a large measuring cup, combine the marinade ingredients. Whisk together ⅔ cup olive oil, ⅓ cup white wine vinegar, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice with the lemon zest. Add 1 tablespoon of Creole seasoning, along with 1 teaspoon each of salt and minced garlic. To balance the flavors, stir in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes. Finally, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and ½ teaspoon of dried parsley for an added herbal note.
Step 3: Layer Shrimp
Prepare two wide-mouth canning jars for layering your Louisiana Pickled Shrimp. Start by placing a few slices of thinly cut onions and lemons at the bottom of each jar. Next, layer the cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp over the onions, filling until almost full. Be sure to evenly distribute 2 bay leaves in each jar, imparting their wonderful flavor throughout the shrimp as they marinate.
Step 4: Add Marinade
Carefully pour the prepared marinade over the layered shrimp in both jars, ensuring the shrimp is submerged. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Use a spoon to gently press down any shrimp that might be floating on the surface, making sure every piece is soaked in that vibrant marinade, enhancing the Louisiana Pickled Shrimp’s flavor.
Step 5: Seal and Distribute
Tightly seal the jars with their lids, ensuring they’re secure to prevent leaks. Gently turn the jars over several times, being careful not to shake them. This method allows the marinade to mix well without disturbing the shrimp too much. You’ll begin to see the marinade fully incorporate with the shrimp and aromatics, creating a beautiful blend of flavors.
Step 6: Refrigerate
Place the jars in your refrigerator. Allow the Louisiana Pickled Shrimp to marinate for at least 24 hours; however, overnight is a must for the best results. Turn the jars periodically—every 6 hours or so—so that the shrimp can soak evenly, absorbing the tangy and rich flavors of the marinade.
Step 7: Serve
Once marinated, remove the jars from the refrigerator. Serve the Louisiana Pickled Shrimp as a highlight of your gathering! Garnish with extra lemon and onion slices on the plate. For delightful crunch and texture, provide toasted baguette slices on the side, perfect for dipping into the very flavorful marinade or enjoying with the plump shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
These Louisiana Pickled Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade and layer the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply follow the recipe until sealing the jars, then refrigerate them overnight (or up to 3 days) before serving. To maintain the quality, ensure that the shrimp stays submerged in the marinade and periodically turn the jars every few hours. When you’re ready to serve, just garnish with additional lemon and onion slices and offer some toasted baguette slices for dipping. This way, you can impress your guests with minimal effort, making your gathering stress-free!
How to Store and Freeze Louisiana Pickled Shrimp
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure the shrimp remains submerged in the marinade to maintain flavor and freshness.
- Jar Sealing: Use airtight jars to prevent any uninvited odors from seeping into your Louisiana Pickled Shrimp. Tightly seal to lock in those vibrant flavors.
- Freezer: While not ideal for long-term storage, you can freeze the shrimp for up to 3 months if necessary. However, this may affect the texture upon thawing.
- Reheating: Enjoy chilled as a refreshing appetizer; reheating is not recommended as it may compromise the marinated texture and taste.
What to Serve with Louisiana Pickled Shrimp?
Delight in transforming your gatherings into flavor-packed experiences with dishes that elevate your Louisiana Pickled Shrimp into a full meal.
- Crispy Baguette Slices: The crunchiness of toasted baguettes provides a perfect contrast to the tender shrimp, making each bite a delightful blend of textures.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens and a zesty vinaigrette complements the shrimp’s tanginess, adding a refreshing balance to the rich flavors.
- Deviled Eggs: Creamy and rich, these classic appetizers are a great pairing, bringing additional Southern flair and a touch of indulgence to your spread.
- Spicy Coleslaw: With its cool, crunchy cabbage and a hint of heat, coleslaw beautifully contrasts the shrimp’s zestiness while adding a delightful crunch.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and tender, grilled corn or corn salad harmonizes with the shrimp, creating a Southern-inspired feast that’s undeniably appealing.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine enhances the bright flavors of the shrimp; choose a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio for an ideal match.
- Lemon Meringue Pie: The bright citrus notes of this classic dessert resonate with the shrimp, offering a sweet contrast that rounds out the meal beautifully.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: For a heartier option, this indulgent pasta dish echoes the shrimp’s flavor profile while adding richness and comfort to your table.
- Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, this refreshing beverage adds a Southern touch and quenches thirst, harmonizing with the shrimp’s bold flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brings a natural sweetness to balance the tang of the shrimp, offering a vibrant finale to your feast.
Expert Tips for Louisiana Pickled Shrimp
- Quality Counts: Always opt for fresh Gulf shrimp for a superior taste; if unavailable, well-thawed frozen shrimp will still create delicious results.
- Marinating Magic: Allow at least 24 hours for the shrimp to soak in the marinade—this enhances the flavors significantly.
- Gentle Mixing: When turning the jars, avoid shaking them aggressively to prevent shrimp from breaking apart; just a gentle turn will suffice.
- Storage Awareness: This dish is best enjoyed within a week; always ensure the shrimp remain submerged in the marinade for optimal flavor retention.
- Adjust Heat: For those who prefer a milder heat, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them altogether; balance is key in your Louisiana Pickled Shrimp.
Louisiana Pickled Shrimp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your unique spin on this delightful recipe with these tempting variations!
- Cilantro Twist: Swap parsley for cilantro to add a fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfect for a Tex-Mex flair.
- Heated Up: Replace red pepper flakes with fresh jalapeño slices if you crave a spicier kick that’ll excite your tastebuds.
- Herbal Boost: Introduce fresh dill or thyme to the marinade for an enticing herbal twist that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Smoky Flavor: Consider adding a splash of liquid smoke to the marinade for a unique, smoky depth that will surprise your guests.
- Citrus Medley: Combine lemon with grapefruit or orange slices for a fruity freshness that brightens the shrimp’s flavor profile.
- Sweet & Spicy: For those who like a sweet touch, add a dash of honey or agave syrup to balance the vinegar’s acidity.
- Savory Depth: Mix in some chopped capers or olives for additional salty, briny notes that enhance the Southern flavor experience.
- Vegan Option: Use firm tofu cubes in place of shrimp for a plant-based alternative that still absorbs the marinade wonderfully.
For even more delightful appetizers, don’t miss our Boom Boom Shrimp recipe that packs a flavorful punch or try blending shrimp with your favorite salad for a refreshing dish!
Louisiana Pickled Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Louisiana Pickled Shrimp?
Absolutely! Fresh Gulf shrimp are ideal for this recipe due to their sweet and firm texture. However, if fresh shrimp aren’t available, well-thawed frozen shrimp also work wonderfully and will still give you a flavorful dish.
How long can I store Louisiana Pickled Shrimp in the fridge?
You can store your Louisiana Pickled Shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure that the shrimp remains completely submerged in the marinade to retain maximum flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze Louisiana Pickled Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze Louisiana Pickled Shrimp for up to 3 months if necessary. However, please note that freezing may alter the texture upon thawing. To freeze, carefully transfer the shrimp and marinade into a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
The more the merrier! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. Conversely, if you’d like to spice things up, consider adding jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Can my dog eat Louisiana Pickled Shrimp?
It’s best to avoid giving your dog Louisiana Pickled Shrimp. The marinade contains ingredients like onions and garlic that can be harmful to pets. Always consult your veterinarian about sharing any human food with your furry friends.
What should I do if my shrimp don’t seem to be absorbing the marinade flavors?
Don’t worry! If the shrimp seem less flavorful after marinating, ensure they’re fully submerged in the marinade. Give the jars a gentle turn every few hours while they’re in the refrigerator; this helps the marinade evenly coat the shrimp. For optimal flavor, aim for at least 24 hours of marination before serving.
Louisiana Pickled Shrimp: A Tangy Taste of Southern Charm
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Louisiana Pickled Shrimp. Slice one lemon thinly, zest the second lemon, then juice it.
- In a large measuring cup, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice with zest, Creole seasoning, salt, minced garlic, sugar, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and dried parsley.
- Prepare two wide-mouth canning jars for layering. Start by placing thin slices of onion and lemon at the bottom. Layer cooked shrimp and distribute bay leaves.
- Carefully pour the marinade over the layered shrimp, ensuring they are submerged. Use a spoon to press down any floating shrimp.
- Tightly seal the jars with their lids and turn them over several times to mix the marinade.
- Place the jars in the refrigerator. Allow to marinate for at least 24 hours, turning them periodically.
- Once marinated, serve Louisiana Pickled Shrimp garnished with extra lemon and onion slices. Provide toasted baguette slices on the side.
