Shrimp Cakes (with Aioli)

These crispy, golden Shrimp Cakes are packed with tender shrimp, fresh herbs, and zesty seasonings. Paired with a creamy, garlicky aioli, they make the perfect appetizer or light meal. Serve them with a fresh salad or over a bed of rice for an irresistible seafood treat.

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Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Cakes

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Perfectly Crispy: Pan-fried for a golden crust but tender and juicy inside.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with herbs, lemon zest, and garlic for maximum taste.
• Dip Alert: The homemade aioli is creamy, tangy, and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients for Shrimp Cakes

For the Shrimp Cakes:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 2 green onions (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

For the Aioli:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 garlic clove (grated or finely minced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Spatula
• Small bowl for aioli
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

How to Make Shrimp Cakes (with Aioli)

1. Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
   • In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, parsley, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until fully combined, but don’t overmix—you want some texture from the shrimp.
2. Form the Cakes
   • Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide. You should get around 8-10 shrimp cakes.
3. Cook the Shrimp Cakes
   • Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
   • Place the shrimp cakes in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Make the Aioli
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve
   • Serve the shrimp cakes warm, with a generous dollop of aioli on top or on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Greens: Serve with a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette.
• Side of Veggies: Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans complement these shrimp cakes perfectly.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal, place the shrimp cakes over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Cakes

• Don’t Over-Chop: Leave the shrimp slightly chunky for the best texture.
• Chill the Mixture: If the mixture feels too wet, refrigerate for 15 minutes before forming the cakes.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh (or properly thawed) shrimp will give you the best flavor.
• Customize the Aioli: Add a bit of sriracha for a spicy kick or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm the shrimp cakes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as they may lose their crispiness.
• Freezer Option: Freeze uncooked shrimp cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the frying time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw?
A: Raw shrimp is ideal for binding and flavor, but if you have cooked shrimp, pulse them in a food processor for a similar effect.

Q2: Can I bake the shrimp cakes instead of frying?
A: Yes! Place the shrimp cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

A Crispy, Flavorful Delight Awaits!

These Shrimp Cakes with Aioli are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, they’re guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget the aioli—it’s the finishing touch that takes them over the top!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g

Make a batch, grab some friends, and enjoy these shrimp cakes together!

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