These prosciutto wrapped shrimp are a tasty treat! The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the juicy shrimp, making every bite really special.
Whenever I’m hosting, I whip these up for my guests. They disappear so fast, it’s like they have little feet! Seriously, they’re fun and super easy to make, perfect for any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Go for large shrimp for this dish. Fresh or frozen works great, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely if using frozen. If you’re allergic, scallops can be a delicious alternative!
Prosciutto: This adds a lovely salty flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, try crispy bacon or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. You can also use thinly sliced pancetta if you prefer.
Olive Oil: This adds richness, but you could substitute with avocado oil or melted butter. Both will help achieve a nice crisp on the prosciutto. For healthier options, try a light olive oil spray.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor, but feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch. If you want a milder flavor, roasting the garlic first can also work well.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary really enhances the dish, but feel free to swap it for thyme or oregano if that’s what you have. Dried herbs can work too; just use less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Wrap Shrimp in Prosciutto Without It Falling Off?
Wrapping shrimp in prosciutto might seem tricky, but it’s quite straightforward! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a shrimp that is dry. This helps the prosciutto stick better.
- Place the prosciutto on a clean surface. Lay the shrimp on one end and carefully wrap the prosciutto around it, overlapping slightly as you go.
- Leaving the tail exposed helps with presentation and makes it easier to eat.
- Use toothpicks if you’re worried about them unraveling, but often they hold well in the oven.
Make sure you place them seam-side down on the baking sheet, so they stay wrapped during cooking. This method will help keep them intact while they cook!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 10 slices prosciutto (each slice cut in half lengthwise)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- Salt, to taste (optional, as prosciutto is salty)
- Black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Optional Dipping Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes to cook. So, in about 25 minutes, you’ll have a fancy appetizer ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice and crispy finish for your shrimp. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Next, rinse the shrimp gently under cold water to clean them. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps the prosciutto stick better!
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Now the fun part! Take a half slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each shrimp. Start from the tail and wrap it spirally towards the head, leaving the tail sticking out for a lovely presentation. Repeat until all the shrimp are wrapped!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place all the wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t crowded so they can crisp up nicely!
5. Season:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, black pepper, and a pinch of salt if you like. Brush this flavorful mixture over the wrapped shrimp, giving them a little extra love!
6. Bake the Shrimp:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and let the shrimp bake for about 8-10 minutes. Watch for the shrimp to turn a lovely pink color and the prosciutto to get crispy.
7. Make the Optional Dipping Sauce:
While the shrimp are baking, you can prepare a quick dipping sauce if you like. Simply mix together the soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, and herbs in a small bowl. This adds a delightful kick!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once the shrimp are done baking, take them out of the oven and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Serve them immediately while they’re warm, alongside lemon wedges and your optional dipping sauce.
Enjoy these elegant, flavorful shrimp as a tasty appetizer or party snack! They’re bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before wrapping them. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you’re looking for a substitute, crispy bacon works great for a similar flavor and texture. You could also try turkey bacon or thinly sliced pancetta for a delicious variation!
How Do I Know When the Shrimp Are Done Cooking?
The shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. The prosciutto should also be crispy. Keep an eye on them in the oven, as they cook quickly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in the oven or a skillet until heated through; this will help retain that crispy texture!
