Zesty Pickled Shrimp Appetizer

• 6 1/2  cups water
• 3 pounds unpeeled, large fresh prawns
• 1 large purple onions, sliced thinly
• 1 cup olive or vegetable oil or combination of both
• 1 cup champagne vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or ½ of one lemon
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 11/4 tablespoons white wine Worcestershire sauce
•  hot sauce, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

Directions

1. 1. Bring water to a boil; add shrimp, and cook 2 to 3 minutes or until shrimp turn pink. Drain and rinse with cold water. Peel shrimp; devein, if desired.
2. 2. Layer shrimp and onion slices in an airtight container.
3. 3. Whisk together oil and next 10 ingredients; pour over shrimp mixture. Cover and chill 24 hours, stirring occasionally.