Description
This smoked shrimp recipe offers a flavorful and smoky twist on fresh shrimp, seasoned with smoked paprika and spices, then gently smoked to perfection. Ideal as an appetizer or main course, the shrimp emerge tender, juicy, and infused with a delicate smoky aroma that pairs beautifully with lemon and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and toss thoroughly to ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Preheat the Smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and allow it to come to temperature. Use mild wood chips like apple, cherry, or alder to infuse a delicate smoke flavor into the shrimp.
- Arrange Shrimp for Smoking: Place the marinated shrimp in a single layer on a grill mat or wire rack to prevent them from falling through the smoker grates, ensuring even exposure to the smoke and heat.
- Smoke the Shrimp: Place the shrimp setup inside the preheated smoker. Smoke for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the shrimp appear pink, opaque, and slightly firm to the touch. Monitor to avoid overcooking.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the smoker and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately as an appetizer or atop rice, salad, or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes before smoking.
- Choose mild wood chips such as apple, cherry, or alder for a delicate, balanced smoke profile.
- Smoked shrimp can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it versatile for seafood platters or casual gatherings.
