Are you looking for a quick, easy, and impressive appetizer that will wow your guests? Look no further! This cold shrimp appetizer recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. It’s a delicious and healthy dish that's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Prepare to elevate your next gathering with this refreshing and flavorful treat! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (you can easily find pre-cooked shrimp in most grocery stores, saving you valuable time)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Crackers, baguette slices, or vegetable sticks for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Ensure your shrimp is completely thawed and drained. Pat them dry with a paper towel; this helps prevent a watery appetizer. If using larger shrimp, you may want to cut them in half for easier serving.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. A touch more lemon juice adds brightness, while a pinch of cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Gently fold the shrimp into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the best taste and texture; chilling allows the shrimp to absorb the delicious flavors of the dressing.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chilled shrimp mixture with crackers, baguette slices, or your favorite vegetable sticks. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh parsley or dill. This appetizer is best served cold, so keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Cold Shrimp Appetizer:
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality shrimp makes a significant difference in the overall taste. Look for firm, plump shrimp with a pleasant smell.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold the shrimp into the dressing to avoid breaking them.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Adding chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving brightens the appetizer.
- Make it Ahead: This appetizer can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Avocado Shrimp: Add 1/2 of a ripe avocado, mashed, to the dressing for a creamy, richer flavor.
- Cocktail Shrimp: Serve the shrimp mixture in small cocktail glasses for an elegant presentation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and crackers/vegetables used)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This delicious cold shrimp appetizer recipe is a perfect example of how homemade cooking can result in simple yet impressive dishes. It's a wonderful addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It's guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy!