Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Name: Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Easy Shrimp Cakes served with a zesty Lemon Aioli. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these shrimp cakes are bursting with flavor and make a fantastic addition to any gathering. Quick to prepare and sure to impress, they are a delicious way to enjoy seafood in a bite-sized package.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-10-20T03:10:18.015Z

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Easy Shrimp Cakes are an ideal choice for various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to enjoy them as appetizers, making them perfect for parties, holiday celebrations, or even as a delicious starter for a seafood-themed dinner. With a light and satisfying bite, they will quickly become a crowd favorite.

Not only do they look impressive, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up a batch of these shrimp cakes even on a busy weeknight. Their versatility makes them a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire, whether you are serving them alongside a crisp salad, or as a part of a lavish seafood platter.

Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Using fresh ingredients is key to making these shrimp cakes shine. The fresh shrimp contributes a sweet and briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty Lemon Aioli. Each ingredient plays a crucial role; for instance, green onions and bell pepper add a lovely crunch and sweetness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Moreover, you can customize these shrimp cakes to suit your taste. Consider adding different herbs or spices to the mix for a unique twist. For those who enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapenos can elevate the flavor profile even further. The simplicity of this recipe means you can experiment without fear of overcomplicating the dish.

Healthy and Nutritious

These shrimp cakes offer a healthier option for snack lovers or those seeking to incorporate more seafood into their diet. Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal. Paired with a homemade Lemon Aioli, you can enjoy a luxurious dipping sauce without the guilt that often accompanies store-bought options loaded with preservatives.

Additionally, the use of fresh vegetables in the ingredient list not only enhances the flavor but also adds vital nutrients. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, while the green onions provide antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it a win-win for any dining occasion.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Cakes

1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp Cakes

In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until roughly chopped. Transfer to a bowl and mix in breadcrumbs, green onions, bell pepper, egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Form mixture into patties.

Cook the Shrimp Cakes

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Lemon Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Serve

Serve the shrimp cakes warm with a generous dollop of lemon aioli on top.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Cakes

To ensure your shrimp cakes hold together well, be sure not to overprocess the shrimp in the food processor. Pulsing them until roughly chopped will provide the right texture for your cakes. Additionally, refrigerate the patties for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this helps them firm up and reduces the risk of them breaking apart during frying.

When it comes to frying, use a good quality oil that can withstand higher temperatures, such as canola or vegetable oil. This guarantees a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil, ensuring each shrimp cake comes out perfectly golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp cakes pair beautifully with a variety of sides and dips. Apart from the Lemon Aioli, consider serving them alongside a tangy tartar sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like an extra kick. A fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp cakes, enhancing your overall meal experience.

For a more substantial meal, serve the shrimp cakes with a side of quinoa or brown rice, accompanied by steamed vegetables. This transforms the appetizer into a fulfilling lunch or dinner, making it versatile for different dining settings.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, avoid the microwave, as this can make them soggy. Instead, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, allowing them to crisp up again for that freshly cooked taste.

You can also freeze uncooked shrimp cakes for later use. Simply form the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to cook them, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a convenient, delicious meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the mixture.

→ How can I store leftover shrimp cakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.