This is a coastal classic from the Lowcountry. It uses a “refrigerator pickle” method. Instead of eating the shrimp hot, you allow them to marinate in an acidic, herbaceous oil, which “cooks” them further and infuses them with bright flavor.

Prep TimeCook TimeServes
20 minutes5 minutes6 (as appetizer)

Part A: Ingredients

  • The Shrimp: 2 lbs Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined).
  • The Brine: $1/2$ cup Apple Cider Vinegar, $1/2$ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 2 Tbsp Capers, 1 Tbsp Celery Seed, 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes.
  • The Aromatics: 1 small Fennel bulb (shaved thin), 1 small Red Onion (shaved), 2 Lemons (sliced into thin rounds), 4 Bay Leaves.

Part B: Instructions

  1. Quick Boil: Boil the shrimp in salted water for only 2โ€“3 minutes until just pink. Drain and immediately drop into an ice bath to keep them snap-tender.
  2. Whisk: In a large bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, capers, and spices.
  3. Layer: In a large glass jar or deep bowl, layer the cold shrimp with the shaved fennel, onion, lemon slices, and bay leaves.
  4. Marinate: Pour the brine over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours.
  5. Serve: Serve cold with toothpicks or over a bed of arugula. The shrimp will be tangy, bright, and incredibly refreshing.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *