The Many Ways to Cook Shrimp: Recipes & Wine Pairings for Every Mood
Shrimp is one of the most versatile seafoods in the world—quick to cook, naturally sweet, and adaptable to almost any cuisine. Whether grilled, sautéed, baked, or boiled, shrimp can take on flavors from delicate herbs to bold spices with ease. Below, we’ll explore several delicious methods to cook shrimp, complete with recipes and the perfect wines to enjoy alongside them.
1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Best for: Backyard barbecues and summer evenings
How to cook:
Toss large peeled shrimp in olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes. Thread onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side, just until pink and slightly charred.
Recipe idea:
Garlic-Lemon Shrimp Skewers
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste
Instructions:
Marinate shrimp for 15 minutes. Grill until lightly charred. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Wine pairing:
Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino—both highlight the lemon and herb flavors while cutting through the smoky richness of the grill.
2. Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter
Best for: A quick, elegant dinner in under 10 minutes
How to cook:
Melt butter in a skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant, then toss in shrimp and sauté until pink and opaque. Finish with white wine, lemon juice, and parsley.
Recipe idea:
Garlic Butter Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley
Instructions:
Cook garlic in butter, add shrimp, and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side. Deglaze the pan with white wine, then add lemon juice and parsley. Serve with crusty bread or over linguine.
Wine pairing:
A Chardonnay with light oak notes or a Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully—the buttery texture of the wine complements the rich sauce.
3. Shrimp Boil
Best for: Gatherings and coastal feasts
How to cook:
In a large pot, boil seasoned water with Old Bay, lemon, garlic, corn, potatoes, and sausage. Add shrimp last, cooking just until pink—about 3 minutes. Drain and serve family-style on a newspaper-covered table.
Recipe idea:
Classic Southern Shrimp Boil
- 1 lb shrimp (shell-on)
- 4 small red potatoes
- 2 ears corn, halved
- 1 smoked sausage, sliced
- 3 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 lemon, halved
Instructions:
Boil potatoes and sausage 10 minutes, add corn for 5 minutes, then shrimp and lemon. Cook until shrimp are pink, drain, and serve with melted butter or cocktail sauce.
Wine pairing:
A dry Rosé or sparkling wine works perfectly—the bright acidity balances the spice and saltiness of the boil.
4. Baked Shrimp Scampi
Best for: Cozy nights and simple entertaining
How to cook:
Arrange shrimp in a baking dish with melted butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, and lemon slices. Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Recipe idea:
Oven-Baked Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb shrimp
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions:
Layer shrimp in a baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs, garlic, butter, and lemon zest, then sprinkle on top. Bake until shrimp are pink and topping is golden.
Wine pairing:
A dry Prosecco or Albariño complements the buttery texture and citrus notes beautifully.
5. Shrimp Stir-Fry
Best for: Weeknight meals with a healthy twist
How to cook:
Quickly cook shrimp in a wok with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots. Serve over rice or noodles.
Recipe idea:
Ginger-Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry
- 1 lb shrimp
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
Instructions:
Sauté shrimp in sesame oil for 2–3 minutes. Add vegetables, soy sauce, and ginger; stir-fry until tender. Serve immediately.
Wine pairing:
A slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer balances the salty-sweet Asian flavors perfectly.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Every Time
- Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook fast—when they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink, they’re done.
- Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp: Rinse and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.
- Season well: Shrimp love bold flavors—garlic, citrus, herbs, and spices all shine.
Pair your favorite preparation with a bright, chilled wine and you’ll have an effortless, elegant meal that feels straight from the Oregon coast.
