Monday, September 27, 2010

Shrimp Appetizer Ideas

Shrimp is an ideal appetizer for any occasion.


Shrimp is a versatile appetizer option as it can be prepared in a wide variety of ways. Pair the shrimp with fresh, seasonal ingredients to create customized party food. Shrimp appetizers are ideal for any type of event, such as birthday bashes, holiday parties, wedding receptions or even casual get-togethers.


Shrimp Salsa


Avocado and shrimp salsa makes a fresh and flavorful appetizer any time of the year, but is especially reminiscent of summer. To prepare the simple salsa, chop peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, tomatoes and avocado and blend them in a bowl. Season the salsa with fresh lime juice, cilantro and green onion. For a tropical flavor, add chopped mango to the salsa as well. Serve the homemade salsa with tortilla chips.


Shrimp Skewers


If you're looking for the ideal summertime shrimp appetizer, you can't go wrong with skewers on the grill. Prior to making the treats, soak bamboo skewers in water to prevent them from burning. Slide medium or jumbo-size peeled and deveined shrimp onto the skewers, along with any type of produce. Alternate the shrimp with onions and green peppers for a savory taste, or pineapple for a taste of the tropics. You can also allow the shrimp skewers to marinate in a sauce of your choice prior to grilling them. Present the skewers on a bed of green lettuce leaves.


Cheesy Shrimp Quesadillas


Cheesy shrimp quesadillas will please everyone on on your guest list. Quesadillas make hearty appetizers, especially when served with homemade guacamole and dollops of sour cream. To make the quesadillas, marinate cooked shrimp in a mixture of lime juice, chopped jalepenos and cilantro for 30 minutes. Heat a flour tortilla in a skillet and layer shredded Monterey Jack cheese and the shrimp mixture onto it. Place another tortilla on top and flip the quesadilla over. Remove the quesadilla from the pan when the cheese is melted and the tortilla is slightly toasted. Cut the appetizer into even triangles prior to serving.


Coconut Shimp


Make plenty of crunchy coconut shrimp appetizers as guests will most likely be begging for more. Coat large, raw tail-on shrimp with egg whites and dip them in a batter made of breadcrumbs and shredded coconut. Fry the shrimp in a skillet of oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve the coconut shrimp alongside a sweet and tangy orange marmalade sauce.







Tags: coconut shrimp, shrimp with, cooked shrimp, lime juice, peeled deveined