^{This post has been sponsored by Andria's Food Group. All opinions expressed are my own.}

Summertime is all about indulging in vibrant flavors and savoring the best that the season has to offer. And what better way to celebrate the sun-kissed days than with a mouthwatering shrimp cocktail? This delightful seafood appetizer combines the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp with the bold and savory flavors of Andria's Barbecue Sauce, courtesy of our longtime friends over at Andria’s Steakhouse, creating a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to a seaside paradise.

At the heart of this recipe lies the star ingredient – the delectable shrimp. Succulent, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, the shrimp takes center stage in this flavor-packed dish. Andria's Barbecue Sauce, our trusted partner and sponsor of this recipe, adds a mesmerizing depth of flavor that perfectly complements the shrimp, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.

What sets this shrimp cocktail apart is the ingenious combination of ingredients. The shrimp, bathed in a flavorful brine, showcases its tender texture and delicate flavors. Andria's Barbecue Sauce, with its signature smokiness and tantalizing blend of spices, harmonizes with the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

As you take the first bite, the succulent shrimp tantalize your taste buds, while the luscious barbecue sauce envelopes each morsel with its rich and tangy embrace. The medley of flavors creates a delightful balance that will leave you craving more. It's a match made in culinary heaven, where the freshness of the shrimp meets the boldness of Andria's Barbecue Sauce, resulting in a harmonious union that embodies the essence of summer.

Andria's Steakhouse, renowned for their exceptional quality and passion for flavor, has crafted a barbecue sauce that compliments the natural sweetness of the shrimp with its smoky, sweet, and savory notes. Their commitment to excellence shines through in every bottle, and it's an honor to partner with them to bring you this exquisite shrimp cocktail.

So, grab a seat at the table, bask in the warmth of the summer sun, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Join us as we delve into the realm of flavors, where succulent shrimp meets the alluring embrace of Andria's Barbecue Sauce. Get ready to savor each bite, as this shrimp cocktail promises to be a memorable and tantalizing experience.

Stay tuned for the full recipe, as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this seafood masterpiece. Trust us, you won't want to miss it. Get ready to indulge in the flavors of summer and elevate your culinary repertoire with this sensational shrimp cocktail. Let the culinary adventure begin!

Ingredient Checklist – Everything You’ll Need

For the Cocktail Sauce:

2 tbs. Andria's Barbecue Sauce
- Note: Andria's Barbecue Sauce is the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a sweet and smoky flavor. Andria's Barbecue Sauce brings a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and sweet notes, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Its thick and velvety texture adds a luxurious touch to this classic seafood appetizer. While it's a natural pairing for succulent shrimp, this versatile sauce goes beyond and enhances the flavors of various grilled favorites, from juicy steaks and tender roasts to hearty burgers and sausages. It even complements heartier seafood options like shark or salmon, adding a delightful twist to your seafood dishes. Its bold flavors and irresistible consistency make it an essential companion for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your culinary creations with Andria's Barbecue Sauce. Make it a part of your kitchen essentials and explore their other delectable offerings like Andria's Steak Sauce and Andria's House Salad Dressing.
1 tsp. horseradish
- Tip: Horseradish adds a subtle kick and tang to the cocktail sauce.
- Substitution: If you don't have horseradish, you can omit it or use a small amount of wasabi to achieve a similar kick, though with a slightly different flavor profile.
1 tsp. chili paste
- Tip: Chili paste adds a touch of heat and depth to the sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Substitution: If you don't have chili paste, you can use hot sauce or red pepper flakes as a substitute.
1 tsp. lemon juice
- Tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors of the sauce and adds a tangy note.
- Substitution: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is preferred for the best taste.

For the Brine:

3 quarts of water:
- Notes: Ensure you have enough water to fully submerge the shrimp. Adjust the quantity if needed.
- Tips: Use filtered water for the best flavor.
  Substitutions: You can use vegetable or seafood broth instead of water for added flavor.
1 tbs. salt:
- Notes: The salt helps to season the shrimp and enhance its natural flavors.
  Tips: Use kosher salt or sea salt for better control over the seasoning. Adjust the amount of salt to your taste preferences.
- Substitutions: You can use other types of salt, such as table salt or Himalayan salt.
2 bay leaves:
- Notes: Bay leaves add a subtle earthy and aromatic flavor to the brine.
  Tips: Use dried bay leaves for convenience, or fresh bay leaves for a more intense flavor.
- Substitutions: If you don't have bay leaves, you can omit them or replace them with other aromatic herbs like thyme or parsley.
1 slice of lemon:
- Notes: The lemon slice adds a hint of citrusy freshness to the brine.
- Tips: Use a fresh lemon for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of lemon according to your preference.
- Substitutions: If you don't have a lemon, you can use lime or orange slices as a substitute for a different citrus flavor. Alternatively, you can use lemon juice instead of a lemon slice.

Remember, the brine is an essential step in achieving perfectly cooked and flavorful shrimp. Take the time to prepare the brine and let the shrimp cook in it to ensure they are tender and seasoned throughout.

Completing the Feast – Ideas for Accompaniments

Grilled Corn: Grilled corn a classic summer side dish that pairs well with the shrimp cocktail. The sweet and juicy corn kernels provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the shrimp.
Creamy coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing can add a refreshing and crunchy element to the meal. The coolness of the coleslaw complements the spiciness of the shrimp cocktail.
Grilled vegetables: Fire up the grill and prepare some grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smoky flavors from the grill will complement the shrimp and add a healthy and vibrant touch to the meal.
Rice or quinoa: Serve the shrimp cocktail over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains will absorb the flavors of the sauce and provide a satisfying base for the shrimp.
Garlic bread: Slices of warm and crusty garlic bread make a delicious accompaniment to the shrimp cocktail. The garlic-infused bread adds a savory element and is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Fresh salad: Prepare a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and your favorite dressing. The light and crisp salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp cocktail.
Baked potatoes: Serve the shrimp alongside baked potatoes topped with sour cream, chives, and a sprinkle of cheese. The creamy and fluffy potatoes complement the bold flavors of the shrimp.
Avocado salad: Create a refreshing avocado salad with diced avocados, tomatoes, red onions, and a lime vinaigrette. The creamy avocado pairs well with the shrimp, and the salad adds a burst of freshness.

These accompaniments will add variety, texture, and complementary flavors to the shrimp cocktail, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Mix and match based on your preferences and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors.

Serving and Presentation – Five Ways to Get Creative

Classic Cocktail Style: Serve the shrimp cocktail in individual serving glasses or martini glasses. Arrange the cooked shrimp around the rim of each glass, tail side up, and place a small bowl of the cocktail sauce in the center for dipping. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an elegant presentation.
Family-Style Platter: Arrange the cooked shrimp on a large platter, either in a single layer or slightly overlapping. Place a bowl of the cocktail sauce in the center of the platter and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. This presentation is great for casual gatherings and allows guests to serve themselves.
Salad Addition: Create a vibrant shrimp salad by combining the cooked and chilled shrimp with crisp salad greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and avocado. Drizzle the cocktail sauce over the salad as a dressing. Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
Skewers: Thread the cooked shrimp on skewers, alternating with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions. Grill or broil the skewers until the shrimp are slightly charred and serve them with the cocktail sauce on the side. This presentation will add a fun and interactive element to your shrimp cocktail.
Slider Sensation: Transform the shrimp cocktail into mini sliders by placing cooked shrimp on a small slider bun or mini roll, top with a dollop of the cocktail sauce and add lettuce or slaw for added crunch. Arrange the sliders on a platter or serving board and secure them with toothpicks. This presentation is perfect for casual parties or appetizer spreads.

Remember, you can always get creative and customize your serving style based on your preference and the occasion. The key is to highlight the succulent shrimp and the flavorful cocktail sauce while adding visual appeal to your presentation. Enjoy the delicious flavors and have fun exploring different serving options!