Pickled shrimp is a favorite Southern appetizer with plenty of herby, garlicky flavor.

Vinegar provides the pickled flavor, while lemon adds brightness.

The shrimp take on plenty of herby, garlicky, peppered flavor from their time in thebrine.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp on plates to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

But its crucial tocook the shrimpyourself.

Do not opt for precooked shrimp, which always tends to be overcooked.

Learn how to make pickled shrimp.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

It is great forpicnics; place in a cute Weck jar and have a little pickle fork handy.

Serve with crostini and Boursin for a crisp and creamy accompaniment.

Use to topdeviled eggs, or as a garnish forBloody Marys.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp cooking the shrimp

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Serve them cold, straight out of the fridge.

Add shrimp to pan and immediately remove from heat.

Cover and let stand for 3 minutes.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp draining the shrimp

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Drain and rinse with cold water; drain well.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 5 days.

We prefer extra-large shrimp for picklinga great size for grabbing as a party appetizer.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp whisking together the dressing for the shrimp

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Choose fresh shrimp if you might for the best flavor and texture.

you might use frozen shrimp if neededjust thaw and drain before using.

Pickled shrimp are typically prepared by starting with shrimp that have been cooked before the pickling liquid is added.

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp adding the rest of the ingredients to the shrimp

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living Pickled Shrimp covered and ready to chill

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox