Description
If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that packs bold flavors and a little kick, Spicy Cajun Shrimp Bites with Remoulade Sauce are a must-try! These bite-sized delights combine succulent shrimp coated in a zesty Cajun spice blend, seared to perfection, and served with a creamy, tangy remoulade sauce that balances the heat. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a festive gathering, or simply want a delicious snack, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp Bites:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 small baguette or French bread, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for toasting bread)
For the Remoulade Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp finely chopped pickles
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Creole or whole-grain mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp capers, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Remoulade Sauce
The remoulade sauce is a crucial element that ties the dish together.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped pickles, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Creole mustard.
- Stir in fresh parsley and capers for an extra depth of flavor.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Pro Tip: The longer the sauce sits, the better the flavors develop!
2. Toast the Bread
A crispy base is essential for holding the shrimp and sauce without getting soggy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each piece with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, rub a clove of garlic over the warm toasts after baking.
3. Season and Cook the Shrimp
Now, let’s get those shrimp bursting with Cajun flavors!
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side.
- Lower the heat, add butter and lemon juice, and toss to coat. Cook for 1 more minute, ensuring the shrimp stay juicy and tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Pro Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for even searing.
4. Assemble the Cajun Shrimp Bites
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!
- Spread a generous dollop of remoulade sauce on each toasted baguette slice.
- Place one or two shrimp on top, depending on size.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 shrimp bites
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 110mg