The first thing that pops into my mind when I think about party foods is conjuring up some cold shrimp appetizers.
That’s because there’s a ton of different ways you can turn a piece of boring old shrimp into the belle of the ball.
You can play around with different guacamole sauce variations and serve them on a piece of tortilla chips, whip a batch of Shrimp Aguachile or make a simple salad.
And that’s not even taking into account all the different hors d’oeuvre ideas that are out there.
23 Cold Shrimp Appetizers
Chilled Marinated Shrimp
This zesty chilled shrimp recipe blends a variety of flavors in a simple marinade that takes less than 10 minutes to prepare.
The shrimp are marinated in lemon juice, white vinegar, oregano, thyme, ground mustard, sugar and vegetable oil.
You can serve the shrimp with some lemon wedges or skewer them for some shrimp skewers.
What We’d Serve This With 🍽️
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some tangy couscous.
Perfect for a light and refreshing start to your meal!
Get the recipe at: Best Appetizers
Shrimp Cocktail Louis
You can never go wrong with a simple Shrimp Cocktail Louis, especially if you love spicy food.
This classic hors d’oeuvre comes with a dip that’s made of Sriracha, chili sauce and horseradish.
The shrimp require minimal cooking and can be served cold which makes them an ideal summer appetizer.
Make It Even Better 🌶️
Try adding a splash of lime juice to the dip for a burst of freshness that will balance the heat.
A sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top will elevate the flavor even further.
Get the recipe at: From a Chef’s Kitchen
Shrimp Cocktail
The term ‘shrimp cocktail’ can have a number of different meanings depending on who you ask.
This Shrimp Cocktail recipe in particular stays true to tradition by sticking to old-fashioned ingredients and spices for the cocktail sauce.
The cocktail sauce is made from ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire, lemon juice and tabasco.
So if you’re looking for something that has stood the test of time, then I recommend trying out this recipe.
Our Flavor Twist 🌟
Add a few dashes of smoked paprika to the cocktail sauce for a smoky twist that brings a rich depth of flavor.
It’s the perfect way to make a classic recipe feel fresh and exciting.
Get the recipe at: Dinner Then Dessert
Poached Shrimp Salad
Plump poached shrimp swimming in a rich creamy sauce and enveloped in crunchy celery, shallots and lettuce.
This Poached Shrimp Salad recipe works great as an appetizer, sandwich filling or even a main dish.
It’s also quite easy to prepare as all you need to do is poach the shrimp and mix it with the salad ingredients.
What We’d Serve This With 🥗
A side of crispy, toasted baguette slices or some buttery garlic bread will perfectly complement this creamy shrimp salad.
It’s a great pairing for a cozy meal!
Get the recipe at: Mighty Mrs
Cucumber Shrimp Cups
These Cucumber Shrimp Cups are the ideal party appetizer. They have a unique presentation, refreshing taste and are extremely easy to make.
The cups are made from hollowed out cucumbers which are garnished with chilled shrimp.
The shrimp is coated in a creamy sauce made of mayo, sour cream and a variety of fresh herbs.
When We’d Serve This 🎉
These are perfect for a summer BBQ or a chic cocktail party.
They make a light and refreshing appetizer that won’t leave you feeling too full before the main course.
Get the recipe at: The Kitchen Whisperer
Simple Cold Shrimp Salad
This Simple Cold Shrimp Salad blends a ton of different flavors and nutrients in a healthy package.
It’s made with diced avocado, baby corn, cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives and chopped fresh parsley.
You can serve it at a get-together, a party or use it as a healthy lunch at the office.
Tips from Our Kitchen 🍴
To keep this salad extra fresh, make sure to toss the ingredients gently just before serving.
This will help keep the avocado from mashing and give you that perfect creamy bite!
Get the recipe at: The Healthy Foodie
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Cold shrimp swimming in clamato juice along with diced cucumbers, roma tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno and cilantro.
If this description sounds enticing, then you’ll love this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail.
The cocktail is typically served with some saltine crackers or tortilla chips, but you can also eat it as is.
Make It Even Better 🥑
For a fun twist, add a dollop of guacamole on top just before serving.
The creamy richness complements the tangy and spicy flavors perfectly.
Get the recipe at: House Of Yumm
Creamy Shrimp Bruschetta
Shrimp appetizers don’t get any easier than this Creamy Shrimp Bruschetta.
This bite-sized hors d’oeuvre is made with a crunchy bruschetta that’s topped off with a cream cheese sauce and pan seared shrimp.
Its elegant presentation makes it perfect for summer get-togethers, birthday parties or any other special occasion you can think of.
What We’d Serve This With 🧀
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc.
Its crisp notes complement the richness of the shrimp and cream cheese sauce.
Get the recipe at: It Is a Keeper
Chipotle Shrimp Guacamole Bites
These Chipotle inspired guacamole bites are perfect if you’re looking for an unpretentious appetizer that requires little effort.
All that’s required on your part is to get some tortilla chips, whip up a simple guacamole sauce and roast the shrimp in the oven.
Afterwards, you simply assemble the bites and serve them either hot or cold.
When We’d Serve This 🥳
These bites are perfect for game day or a casual gathering with friends.
They’re fun to eat and sure to be a hit!
Get the recipe at: Marisa Moore
Shrimp Aguachile
Shrimp Aguachile is a classic Mexican appetizer that’s made from shrimp marinated in lime juice.
It’s similar to ceviche in that the shrimp is “cooked” by the highly acidic lime juice.
However, unlike ceviche, the shrimp are then marinated in a spicy marinade made from blended cilantro and chili peppers.
You can serve shrimp aguachile on top of some tortilla chips or top it off with some sliced cucumbers and red onion.
Tips from Our Kitchen 🌶️
For an added kick, try using serrano peppers instead of jalapenos in the marinade.
It brings an extra layer of heat without overpowering the other flavors!
Get the recipe at: A Farm Girl’s Dabbles
Shrimp and Crab Appetizer
This Shrimp and Crab Appetizer is extremely versatile as it can be used as both a salad and a sandwich filling.
It’s made with a creamy mayo dressing, avocado, cooked shrimp and crab meat.
All of this is garnished with finely chopped scallions, celery and red peppers for those of you who love spicy foods.
If you can’t find fresh crab meat, you can also try making this salad with imitation crab meat.
Our Flavor Twist 🌶️
Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the creamy mayo dressing for an added layer of heat and flavor.
This simple tweak will make the dish even more mouthwatering!
Get the recipe at: April J. Harris
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Appetizer
This appetizer features chilled shrimp served over a block of cream cheese that’s topped off with cocktail sauce.
You can turn it into finger food by serving it to your guests with a bunch of crispy saltines or tortilla chips.
The entire recipe comes together in less than five minutes so you won’t have to worry about time too.
What We’d Serve This With 🧀
Serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine or even a crisp iced tea for a refreshing pairing.
The creamy cheese and shrimp combo is perfectly complemented by a cold beverage!
Get the recipe at: The Kitchen Is My Playground
Cucumber Shrimp Boats
These Cucumber Shrimp Boats are a twist on the more traditional shrimp appetizer recipes.
Instead of serving the shrimp on top of a slice of cucumber, the cucumber is cut in half so that it resembles a boat and can fit more shrimp.
The shrimp is also garnished with a bunch of diced onions and scallions for additional flavor.
Make It Even Better 🥒
For a refreshing touch, add a dollop of tzatziki sauce to the cucumber boats before serving.
It brings a cool, creamy element that works wonderfully with the shrimp!
Get the recipe at: Healthy Living Mastery
Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers
These Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Appetizers are a perfect blend of creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and succulent shrimp.
Each bite delivers a refreshing taste, enhanced by a hint of citrus.
Perfect for warm weather, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
Serve these on a platter and watch them disappear quickly.
What We’d Serve This With 🍽️
Pair it with a light quinoa salad or a bowl of fresh fruit to keep things healthy and vibrant.
It’s the perfect appetizer for a sunny afternoon!
Get the recipe at: Natasha’s Kitchen
Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
The Sticky Shrimp Lettuce Wraps offer a tantalizing combination of sweet and savory flavors.
The shrimp is coated in a luscious, sticky sauce that complements the crispness of fresh lettuce.
These wraps are light yet satisfying, perfect for a quick appetizer that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ideal for those who enjoy a bit of zest in their meals.
When We’d Serve This 🥳
These wraps are perfect for a fun taco night or as a starter for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
The bold flavors are sure to impress your guests!
Get the recipe at: The Modern Proper
Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing dish that brings the flavors of the sea to your table.
The shrimp is marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, creating a bright and tangy taste.
Paired with fresh vegetables, this ceviche is both vibrant and healthy.
Serve it chilled for a perfect appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Our Flavor Twist 🍊
Add some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical twist that balances out the acidity of the citrus.
It’s an easy way to elevate this already delicious ceviche!
Get the recipe at: Culinary Hill
Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Cilantro Basil Shrimp with Mango Salsa is an explosion of tropical flavors.
The shrimp, seasoned with aromatic herbs, pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy mango salsa.
This dish is not only delicious but also colorful and visually appealing.
It’s a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests craving more.
Make It Even Better 🥥
For an added tropical touch, top the shrimp and salsa with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
It adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor!
Get the recipe at: Little Broken
Shrimp-Stuffed Tomatoes
Imagine the vibrant burst of juicy tomatoes filled with a succulent shrimp mixture, perfectly chilled to enhance every flavor.
This appetizer is as visually stunning as it is delicious, combining fresh ingredients that meld together for a delightful bite.
Each tomato is a little package of shrimp heaven, making it an ideal dish for any gathering.
What We’d Serve This With 🍷
Serve these with a crisp, refreshing white wine like Chardonnay to bring out the sweet flavors of the shrimp.
A perfect pairing for a summer evening!
Get the recipe at: Cherries With Love
Greek Marinated Shrimp Skewers
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these Greek marinated shrimp skewers, a refreshing and flavorful appetizer.
Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, the shrimp are grilled to perfection and served chilled for a light, satisfying bite.
Perfect for summer parties, these skewers are both healthy and delicious, making them a crowd-pleaser.
When We’d Serve This 🍋
These skewers are perfect for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party or a barbecue.
They’re light, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd favorite!
Get the recipe at: Dishing out Health
Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Spice up your appetizer game with Cajun shrimp deviled eggs, a unique twist on a classic favorite.
The creamy egg filling is perfectly complemented by the spicy, chilled shrimp, creating a tantalizing bite-sized treat.
These deviled eggs are not only flavorful but also elegant, making them ideal for any sophisticated gathering.
Our Flavor Twist 🌶️
Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a bit of cayenne pepper for an even bolder flavor kick.
It’ll give your deviled eggs that extra oomph that your guests will love!
Get the recipe at: Lauren from Scratch
Pineapple Shrimp Barley Salad
Delight your taste buds with the refreshing Pineapple Shrimp Barley Salad.
This cold appetizer features juicy shrimp combined with sweet pineapple and nutty barley, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Perfect for a summer gathering, this salad offers a healthy, vibrant twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
The addition of fresh herbs and a light dressing elevates the dish, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
What We’d Serve This With 🥗
This salad pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a fresh citrusy lemonade.
It’s the perfect light meal or side to accompany grilled seafood or chicken.
Get the recipe at: Silk Road Recipes
Tzatziki Shrimp Cucumber Rounds
Elevate your appetizer game with Tzatziki Shrimp Cucumber Rounds.
These bite-sized delights pair succulent shrimp with crisp cucumber and creamy tzatziki sauce, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience.
Perfect for parties, these rounds are not only easy to prepare but also provide a visually appealing and healthy option for your guests.
The combination of cool cucumber and tangy tzatziki with the shrimp creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
Make It Even Better 🧄
For an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle a little garlic powder on top before serving.
It adds a savory kick that perfectly complements the cool tzatziki and crisp cucumber.
Get the recipe at: Taste of Home
Garlic Shrimp and Butternut Party Bites
Add a gourmet touch to your appetizer spread with Garlic Shrimp and Butternut Party Bites.
These elegant bites feature tender shrimp seasoned with garlic atop a base of sweet butternut squash, creating a delectable contrast of flavors.
Perfect for any gathering, these bites are sure to impress with their sophisticated taste and presentation.
The combination of savory garlic shrimp and the natural sweetness of butternut squash makes this appetizer a standout choice.
When We’d Serve This 🍂
These are perfect for a fall dinner party or a holiday gathering.
Their warm and comforting flavors make them an ideal choice for cooler evenings!
Get the recipe at: Savor the Best
Wrap Up
The term cold shrimp appetizer doesn’t need to boil down to a simple shrimp cocktail.
As long as you’re willing to get creative, you can make a bunch of different salads and hors d’oeuvres.
Just don’t forget to share them with your guests.
Next, for more appetizer inspiration you can check my list with 14 Cold Smoked Salmon Appetizer Ideas.
Or if you’re researching shrimp dishes in general you could skim through my list of Baby Shrimp Recipe Ideas!