Prosciutto wrapped shrimp is a tasty treat that combines the salty goodness of prosciutto with juicy, tender shrimp. This dish is super easy to make and perfect for impressing guests!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy prosciutto wrapped around succulent shrimp? I love serving these with toothpicks at parties—it’s like instant gourmet vibes! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp are best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp work too—just ensure they are thawed completely. I sometimes go for jumbo shrimp to make them even more impressive!
Prosciutto: This Italian ham adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a substitution, thinly sliced turkey or bacon can work, but keep in mind they won’t give the same taste. I love using prosciutto for that rich, savory touch!
Olive Oil: This enhances the flavor and helps crisp the prosciutto. Instead, avocado oil or a flavored oil like garlic-infused can add a nice twist.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. You can swap it with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile, depending on your preference!
What’s the Best Way to Wrap Shrimp with Prosciutto?
Wrapping shrimp in prosciutto might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple. The goal is to cover the shrimp without hiding the tail. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by patting the shrimp dry so the prosciutto sticks well.
- Take a half slice of prosciutto and begin at the top of the shrimp (the head side). Pull it tightly around the body, spiraling down toward the tail.
- Leave the tail uncovered; this helps it stay crispy while cooking and makes it easy to eat.
Make sure the prosciutto overlaps slightly as you wrap for the best result. This way, every bite has that delicious combination of flavors! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 8 thin slices of prosciutto, cut in half lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil. This makes for super easy cleanup later on.
2. Wrap the Shrimp:
Pat your shrimp dry using paper towels. This helps the prosciutto stick well! Now, take a half slice of prosciutto, and begin wrapping it around each shrimp. Make sure to spiral it down towards the tail, leaving the tail uncovered so it gets nice and crispy. Place the wrapped shrimp on the baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Mix the Flavors:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This mixture will not only add flavor, but it will also help crisp up the prosciutto in the oven!
4. Brush and Season:
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the wrapped shrimp with the olive oil mixture. Be sure to season with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Just a friendly reminder: prosciutto is salty, so be careful with how much salt you add!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now, pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the prosciutto looks crispy and delicious. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
6. Final touches:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for that zesty kick. Carefully transfer the shrimp to a serving platter and, if you like, sprinkle a bit more chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
These prosciutto wrapped shrimp are best enjoyed immediately while they’re still warm. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor, and enjoy with your favorite chilled white wine or cocktail!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. The best way is to leave them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Serve with Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp?
These shrimp make a great appetizer! To complement them, consider serving them with a light salad, garlic bread, or even over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. They pair beautifully with a chilled white wine or a refreshing cocktail.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp by wrapping them in prosciutto and mixing the olive oil mixture ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate both separately until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, preheat the oven and proceed as directed—no need to alter the cooking time!
What If I Don’t Have Prosciutto?
If prosciutto is unavailable, you can substitute it with thinly sliced bacon or turkey bacon. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, as these meats may cook differently than prosciutto. Bacon will be less salty, so season according to taste!
