Antipasto Of Scampi Shrimp Hors D'Oeuvre
A sophisticated appetizer featuring succulent shrimp in a creamy, tangy mayonnaise with chicory, perfect for elegant gatherings or light entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a stiff mayonnaise with egg yolk, the juice of lemon, salt, and olive oil.
- Combine the mayonnaise with heavy cream or thick soured cream, brandy, and tomato ketchup.
- Boil, cool, peel, and devein the shrimp.
- Combine the cooked shrimp with the mayonnaise mixture.
- Line the bottom of a large serving dish with finely shredded chicory, using the tender leaves from the heart.
- Place the shrimp mixture over the chicory and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Can be served in individual small dishes as a first course.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mayonnaise for extra depth. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also be mixed into the shrimp for added freshness. For a touch of heat, a dash of hot sauce can be included in the mayonnaise.
Serving Suggestions
This antipasto is perfect as a starter for a seafood-themed meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers and a light white wine. For a complete spread, serve alongside other Mediterranean recipes like Sausage And Clams In Saffron Sauce or a refreshing Shrimp-Feta-Pasta Salad. Individual serving dishes make it an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, avoid mixing the shrimp with the mayonnaise until ready to serve. If reheating, do so gently in a pan over low heat, but note that shrimp are best enjoyed cold in this dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Antipasto Of Scampi Shrimp Hors D'Oeuvre contains roughly 1103 calories, with 5g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking. For the best texture, avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Always rinse them under cold water after thawing to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk to achieve a creamy consistency. Alternatively, coconut cream can work well for a dairy-free version, adding a subtle sweetness.
How long can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the mayonnaise and shrimp mixture up to a day in advance. Just keep the shrimp refrigerated until you're ready to assemble the dish. However, it's best to serve the antipasto within a few hours of combining the ingredients for optimal freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).