Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Name: Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped); 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

May 30, 2025

Updated:

May 30, 2025

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Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. These flavorful cakes offer a crispy exterior and tender shrimp inside, complemented by the zesty lemon aioli that brings everything together. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with fresh ingredients, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of shrimp, lemon zest, and Old Bay seasoning creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve these shrimp cakes as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich for a delicious twist.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh shrimp and herbs elevates this dish, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and nutrition.
Perfectly Crispy Texture: The use of panko breadcrumbs guarantees a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft shrimp filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli, gather the essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowl
Knife
Chopping board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness on your shrimp cakes.
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the shrimp quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Cakes

1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood seasoning)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

Roughly chop the shrimp into small pieces. They should be bite-sized but not minced. This will help maintain texture when cooked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon zest, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined without overmixing.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form them into round patties about 1 inch thick.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp Cakes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the formed shrimp cakes to the skillet.
Cook each side for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to avoid breaking.
Transfer cooked cakes onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth.
Add salt and pepper to taste; adjust lemon juice or zest if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.

Enjoy your Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli as a delightful addition to any meal!

How to Serve Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Serving shrimp cakes with lemon aioli is a delightful experience. They can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions that complement the flavors of shrimp cakes and lemon aioli.

As a Starter

Serve individual shrimp cakes on small plates as an appetizer at your next gathering, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious bite before the main course.

In a Sandwich

Place a shrimp cake between two slices of crusty bread or a soft bun, adding some fresh greens and tomato slices for a tasty sandwich option.

With a Salad

Pair the shrimp cakes with a light, refreshing salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing will balance the richness of the cakes.

On Skewers

Thread shrimp cakes onto skewers along with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation that’s easy to eat at parties or picnics.

With Dipping Sauces

Set up a small platter with various dipping sauces alongside your shrimp cakes. Options like spicy sriracha mayo or tangy cocktail sauce can add extra flavor.

As Part of a Platter

Arrange several shrimp cakes on a large platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for an impressive centerpiece at any meal or celebration.

How to Perfect Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

To ensure your shrimp cakes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for success.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh shrimp and herbs will enhance the flavor and texture of your shrimp cakes, making them taste even better.
Don’t overmix – Mixing too much can make the shrimp cakes tough. Gently combine ingredients until just blended to maintain a tender texture.
Chill before cooking – Refrigerating the formed patties for about 15 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
Adjust seasoning – Taste your mixture before forming patties. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
Fry in batches – Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking. Frying in batches allows for even cooking and ensures each cake gets crispy.
Keep it warm – If serving multiple guests, keep cooked shrimp cakes warm in a low oven while you finish frying the rest.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Shrimp cakes pair beautifully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options you can serve alongside them.

Coleslaw – A crunchy vegetable slaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of shrimp cakes.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn makes for a sweet and satisfying side that complements seafood well.
Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrients to your meal while balancing flavors.
Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is always a hit, providing another layer of flavor that pairs well with lemon aioli.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers protein and keeps the meal healthy yet filling.
French Fries – Classic crispy fries add comfort food appeal and are perfect for dipping into leftover lemon aioli.
Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges provide heartiness and can be enjoyed alongside or dipped in sauce.
Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus delivers vibrant color and nutritional benefits without overpowering the dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making shrimp cakes with lemon aioli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure delicious results.

Overmixing the Shrimp Mixture: Overmixing can lead to tough shrimp cakes. Mix the ingredients just until combined for a tender texture.
Using Regular Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs may not give you the same crispiness. Opt for panko breadcrumbs for a light and crunchy exterior.
Not Chilling the Patties: Skipping the chilling step can cause the shrimp cakes to fall apart while cooking. Chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting your mixture can result in bland shrimp cakes. Always taste and adjust seasoning before cooking.
Cooking at High Heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the outside before the inside cooks through. Use medium heat for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked shrimp cakes in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keep lemon aioli in a separate container; it can last for up to a week.

Freezing Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Place uncooked shrimp cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Freeze them individually for about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp cakes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently. The texture may not be as crispy.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary, until warmed through and crispy on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli?

Shrimp cakes with lemon aioli are delicious seafood patties made from chopped shrimp mixed with breadcrumbs and spices, served with a tangy lemon-flavored mayonnaise sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before using them in the recipe.

How do I customize my Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli?

You can add different herbs like dill or cilantro or incorporate spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat. Experiment with various toppings as well!

What should I serve with Shrimp Cakes?

These shrimp cakes pair beautifully with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or even on top of a bun like a seafood burger.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp cakes with lemon aioli are a delightful dish that offers flavor and versatility. They make an excellent appetizer or main course, perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs! Try this recipe today and enjoy the bright flavors!