Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp are a tasty treat! Juicy shrimp are hugged snugly by crispy prosciutto for the perfect salty and sweet combo.
Making these is a breeze! I love serving them with a little dipping sauce; it really makes them shine. Plus, they disappear faster than I can plate them! 🦐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for wrapping because they stay juicy and tender. If you’re allergic to shellfish, try using chicken strips as a substitute—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Prosciutto: This thinly sliced Italian ham adds a salty kick. If you can’t find prosciutto, try using pancetta or even turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish. For a different taste, you could use melted butter or avocado oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but garlic powder can be a quicker alternative. Just remember to use less if you choose the powdered form.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Stay Juicy?
Getting perfectly cooked shrimp is vital for this dish. Follow these tips:
- Dry the shrimp well before wrapping. This helps the prosciutto stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcook! As soon as the shrimp turn pink and opaque, they’re done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on heat.
- Make sure your cooking surface (oven or grill pan) is preheated! This helps the prosciutto crisp up nicely.
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 10 thin slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Arugula or mixed greens, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 6-8 minutes to cook. In no time at all, you can have a tasty dish ready for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat up a grill pan over medium-high heat. This helps cook the shrimp evenly and ensures the prosciutto gets crispy!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take your shrimp and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because drier shrimp hold up better when wrapped and help the prosciutto stick nicely.
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Now, take a half slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each shrimp. Make sure it covers the middle part of the shrimp nicely. The prosciutto should cling to the shrimp. You can slightly overlap if needed to fully cover each shrimp.
4. Mix the Olive Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. This yummy mixture adds flavor and moisture, so don’t skip it!
5. Brush the Wrapped Shrimp:
Using a brush or a spoon, lightly coat each wrapped shrimp with the olive oil mixture. This will help them cook beautifully and add even more flavor.
6. Arrange for Cooking:
Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or add them to your grill pan. Make sure they have a little space between them for even cooking.
7. Cook the Shrimp:
Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turns pink and opaque while the prosciutto crisps up to a beautiful golden color.
8. Garnish and Season:
Once cooked, take them off the heat and drizzle with any remaining olive oil mixture. Then, sprinkle chopped parsley and add freshly ground black pepper to taste!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Lay your prosciutto-wrapped shrimp on a platter, ideally over a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a fresh touch. Serve them hot and enjoy this scrumptious appetizer!
Happy cooking! Enjoy this delightful, salty-sweet, crispy and tender prosciutto wrapped shrimp appetizer at your next gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before starting. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp and wrap them in prosciutto a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This makes for an easy and quick appetizer when guests arrive!
What Should I Do If My Prosciutto Isn’t Crispy?
If your prosciutto isn’t getting crispy, try increasing the cooking time slightly—an extra minute or two can make a difference. Just keep an eye on the shrimp to ensure they don’t overcook.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes! If you’re looking for a variation, you can replace prosciutto with other cured meats like pancetta or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. Just know that the cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the meat used.
