These prosciutto-wrapped shrimp are a match made in heaven! The salty prosciutto adds a tasty crunch to the tender, juicy shrimp. You won’t believe how easy they are to make!
I love serving these at parties; they always disappear fast! They’re the perfect finger food that impresses guests without stressing the cook. Plus, who doesn’t love shrimp and crispy prosciutto? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the stars of this dish. You can use frozen shrimp; just thaw them properly before cooking. If you’re allergic to shrimp, consider scallops for a similar taste and texture.
Prosciutto: This Italian cured ham adds a nice salty crunch. If you prefer a different flavor, bacon is a great alternative; just be sure to cook it longer to get it crispy.
Olive oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. For a different kick, you could use flavored oils like garlic or chili oil.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and rosemary brighten up the flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, dried herbs work too! Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky since they cook quickly! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before baking the shrimp.
- Keep an eye on them as they bake. Shrimp are done when they’re pink and opaque, typically 8-10 minutes.
- A good way to check is to cut one open; it should be slightly firm but not tough.
Remember, overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so pull them out as soon as they look done!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 10 thin slices of prosciutto (cut in half lengthwise)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying these tasty shrimp in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure your shrimp cook evenly. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This is important to make sure they don’t steam when cooking. Lightly season them with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Now comes the fun part! Take a half slice of prosciutto and start wrapping it around each shrimp, beginning near the tail and spiraling around to the head. Leave the tail exposed, as it makes a great handle when serving!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place all your wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded; they’ll cook better if they have a bit of space.
5. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped rosemary. The aroma will be amazing! Brush this mixture generously over each shrimp for added flavor.
6. Bake the Shrimp:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the prosciutto is crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re ready, remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with some fresh rosemary sprigs for a pop of green! Serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a delightful brightness to every bite.
Now, enjoy these delicious, crispy, salty prosciutto-wrapped shrimp as an elegant appetizer or party snack! Your friends and family will be impressed!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before wrapping. The best way to do this is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, bacon is a great alternative! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bacon might need a bit longer to crisp up compared to prosciutto.
Can I Prepare These Shrimp in Advance?
You can certainly prep the shrimp ahead of time! Wrap them in prosciutto, and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just brush on the marinade right before you’re ready to cook them.
How Do I Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they remain crispy!
