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Crispy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli – A Flavorful Delight Recipe

4.7 from 101 reviews

These Crispy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a delicious and flavorful seafood appetizer or main dish. Made with finely chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, and zesty lemon, then pan-fried to golden perfection, they pair wonderfully with a tangy lemon-garlic aioli for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp Cakes

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon Aioli

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: Chop the raw shrimp into small pieces, taking care not to over-process them. This ensures the shrimp retains some texture in the cakes.
  2. Mix the cake ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped green onions, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Form patties: Shape the mixture into shrimp cakes about 1 inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly and hold together during frying.
  4. Cook the shrimp cakes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  5. Make the lemon aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  6. Serve: Plate the crispy shrimp cakes and drizzle or serve alongside the lemon aioli for dipping. Enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not over-chop the shrimp to maintain a good texture in the cakes.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best citrus flavor.
  • These shrimp cakes can be kept warm in a low oven while cooking the batch.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in a skillet.

Keywords: shrimp cakes, crispy shrimp, lemon aioli, seafood appetizer, easy shrimp recipe