Celery Stuffed With Shrimp
Creamy shrimp and crunchy celery combine for a refreshing appetizer perfect for parties or light snacks, with tangy lemon and smooth cream cheese flavors appealing to seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, salt, and lemon juice until well blended.
- Stir in the cooked, cleaned shrimp to the mixture.
- Stuff the celery stalks with the shrimp mixture.
- Cut the stuffed celery into 1/2-inch slices and serve with wooden picks as an hors d'oeuvre.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If shrimp isn't available, you can substitute with crab meat or even canned tuna for a different flavor. When mixing, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier blending. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a refreshing appetizer at parties or gatherings. Pair it with a light salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks for a delightful contrast. It also works well as a side for more substantial seafood recipes like Annie'S Crawfish Fettucini, making it a versatile addition to your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crunchiness, avoid stacking the celery slices. These can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, as reheating may cause the celery to lose its crisp texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celery Stuffed With Shrimp contains roughly 41 calories, with 6g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1400mg per serving (61% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to stuff the celery just before serving to keep it crisp. If already stuffed, consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Opt for cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp to save time. Fresh shrimp can be boiled or steamed, but if you're short on time, frozen shrimp works well too—just ensure they're thawed and drained before mixing them in.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cream cheese is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese for a tangy flavor or ricotta for a lighter texture. Just remember that different cheeses may alter the overall taste and creaminess of the filling.
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).