Name: Crispy Shrimp Cakes with Zesty Lemon Aioli Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Gluten-free optional); 1 large Egg (Or flax egg for vegan option); 2 scallions Green Onions (Finely sliced); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Or fresh garlic for more flavor); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt for lighter option); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh is best); 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Freshly grated)

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The fragrant aroma of sautéing shrimp fills the kitchen as I prepare to whip up a batch of irresistible Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli. Perfectly crispy on the outside, these little delights are filled with tender shrimp and savory spices that dance on your palate. What I love most is their versatility; whether served as elegant appetizers or a satisfying main course, they always steal the show. With a quick prep time and the ability to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this seafood dish is one you’ll want to add to your repertoire. Pair them with the zesty lemon aioli, and you have a delightful balance of flavors that will elevate any meal. Could these shrimp cakes become your new go-to for gatherings? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Shrimp Cakes Irresistible?

Succulent Texture: The combination of crispy outer crust with a tender, juicy interior makes each bite an unforgettable experience.

Zesty Brightness: The lemon aioli adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the rich shrimp flavor, elevating these cakes to gourmet status.

Versatile Serving: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a casual weeknight meal, these shrimp cakes shine as appetizers or a main course.

Quick & Easy: With a prep time that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long, you can enjoy gourmet flavors without the hassle—perfect for busy home cooks!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Everyone will be raving about these savory bites, making them an instant hit at gatherings. Pair them with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that brings smiles!

You’ll want to also check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for another delicious seafood option!

Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli Ingredients

For the Shrimp Cakes

Shrimp – Use fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs – These help bind the cakes together; feel free to substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Egg – This acts as a binder; you can replace it with a flax egg for a vegan-friendly version.
Green Onions – Adds a fresh kick; shallots work as a mild alternative if you prefer.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor; using fresh garlic can give an extra flavor boost.

For the Lemon Aioli

Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base for your aioli—consider Greek yogurt for a lighter choice.
Lemon Juice – This adds a burst of acidity; fresh lemon juice is best for optimal flavor.
Lemon Zest – Infuses a citrus fragrance and intensifies the lemon flavor in your aioli.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating delightful Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli. These will surely impress your family and friends at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Begin by coarsely chopping your shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are evenly cut to promote even cooking. If using frozen shrimp, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in your shrimp cakes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add breadcrumbs, egg, finely sliced green onions, garlic powder, and your choice of seasoning to the shrimp in the bowl. Gently mix the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and form a cohesive mixture. This mixture should be sticky enough to hold together but not overly wet.

Step 3: Form the Patties
With your hands, shape the mixture into small cakes, about the size of your palm. Aim for uniformity in size, which helps them cook evenly. Place the formed shrimp cakes on a parchment-lined tray, allowing them to rest for a few minutes; this helps them firm up before cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Cakes
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom lightly. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the shrimp cakes to the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry them for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy, creating a lovely crust.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Aioli
While the shrimp cakes are cooking, prepare the lemon aioli. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch of salt or extra lemon juice to taste.

Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, transfer the shrimp cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. To serve, plate the warm shrimp cakes and drizzle generously with the zesty lemon aioli. Garnish with additional lemon zest or chopped herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Tips for Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Fridge: Store leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for best results, ensuring they retain their crispy texture.

Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen shrimp cakes, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until thoroughly warmed. This helps regain their crispy exterior.

Prep Ahead: Formed shrimp cakes can be prepped and refrigerated for up to a day before cooking, making it quick to whip them up when the craving strikes!

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the shrimp, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, and seasoning, then shape into cakes and refrigerate. Cover them tightly to prevent drying out and maintaining their moisture. When you’re ready to serve, just heat oil in a skillet and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. The lemon aioli can also be made ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, your delicious meal is quick to finish and just as delightful!

What to Serve with Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Discover the perfect pairings to elevate your delightful shrimp cakes into a memorable meal.

Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh and vibrant salad adds a crunchy contrast, brightening your plate with colorful veggies and a tangy dressing.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the shrimp cakes beautifully while offering a tender, slightly crispy texture.
Zesty Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage with a zesty dressing adds a delightful crunch, making each bite of shrimp cake even more enjoyable. The brightness of the slaw balances the richness of the aioli perfectly.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa adds a hearty base, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor and texture, making it a wholesome addition to your meal.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a pop of color and freshness, and their mild flavor allows the shrimp cakes to shine.
Garlic Bread: For that wonderful indulgent touch, garlic bread brings a savory element that pairs amusingly well with the creamy lemon aioli.
Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine offers a refreshing contrast to the dishes, its citrus notes harmonizing splendidly with the zesty flavors of the aioli.
Lemon Tart: Finish on a sweet note with a tangy lemon tart; its bright flavors echo those of the aioli, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Expert Tips for Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Perfectly Formed Cakes: Ensure the shrimp cakes are well-formed. Loose patties may fall apart during cooking, so compact them firmly.
Chill for Crunch: For extra crunch, refrigerate formed patties for 30 minutes prior to cooking. This helps maintain their shape and improves texture.
Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible. Sustainable choices like sockeye shrimp can enhance the flavor of your shrimp cakes significantly.
Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, keeping your shrimp cakes crispy.
Customize Your Aioli: Feel free to tweak the lemon aioli by adding herbs or spices like dill or smoked paprika for a unique twist to the classic recipe.

Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli Variations

Feel free to get creative with these shrimp cakes, and discover new delightful flavors with each serving!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a zesty heat that’ll make your taste buds tingle. If you love spicy food, this twist will certainly make your shrimp cakes stand out!
Crab Cakes Variation: Substitute shrimp with an equal amount of lump crab meat for a more luxurious take on these cakes. Not only will they have a rich flavor, but they’ll also present beautifully at gatherings.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley into your shrimp mixture for an extra burst of flavor. This adds freshness that pairs beautifully with the lemon aioli.
Vegan Option: Use chickpeas or a plant-based seafood alternative in place of shrimp, along with the same seasonings. They can create a delightful texture and flavor that everyone will enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences!
Crunchy Add-Ins: Stir in finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini to add texture and freshness to your cakes. This also keeps your shrimp cakes juicy and vibrant.
Citrus Twist: Switch lemon for lime juice and zest for a tangy twist on the creaminess of the aioli. This change can bring a delightful variation that enhances your dish in another direction!
Pasta Partner: Serve these shrimp cakes over a bed of pasta tossed in lemon garlic sauce. For an even more flavorful side, try it with a Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta.
Salad Base: Serve the shrimp cakes over a bed of arugula or mixed greens, and let the lemon aioli act as a dressing. This makes for a light, refreshing meal perfect for warm evenings.

No matter how you choose to enjoy these versatile shrimp cakes, each variation promises to deliver a delicious twist that your family and friends will love!

Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your shrimp cakes, use fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp. You want shrimp that is peeled and deveined, preferably sustainable options like sockeye or wild-caught shrimp for a superior taste.

How long can I store leftover shrimp cakes in the fridge?
Very! Leftover shrimp cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to ensure they regain their crispy texture.

Can I freeze shrimp cakes? If so, how?
For sure! To freeze shrimp cakes, first, lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours until they are firm. Then, transfer the frozen cakes to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What if my shrimp cakes are falling apart during cooking?
Oh no! If your shrimp cakes are falling apart, it might be because they’re too loose. To avoid this, ensure that the mixture is well-combined and compact when forming the patties. You can also refrigerate the formed cakes for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold together better.

Can I make the lemon aioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lemon aioli up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh it!

Are shrimp cakes safe for those with shellfish allergies?
Very! Unfortunately, shrimp cakes are not safe for individuals with shellfish allergies. If you need a seafood alternative, consider using crab meat or a suitable plant-based protein to create a delicious substitute that everyone can enjoy!