Larkin'S Shrimp Dip
Larkin's Shrimp Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer featuring shrimp combined with a rich blend of cream cheese, salad dressing, and seasonings. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it pairs well with crackers, chips, bread, or toast, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dip.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a food processor.
- Mix all ingredients except shrimp.
- Add the drained shrimp and mix in last.
- Mix lightly to keep the shrimp in small pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the shrimp with canned crab or finely chopped imitation crab for a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This dip is perfect for serving with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks and can also complement dishes like Baked Lemon Haddock.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp dip chilled or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings. It pairs beautifully with crunchy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudités. Consider serving it alongside other seafood recipes for a themed spread, such as Cioppino(San Francisco Style) or Crab Newburg, to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy it again, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or gently reheat in the microwave for short intervals, stirring frequently to maintain the texture. Avoid overheating, as it can make the dip watery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Larkin'S Shrimp Dip contains roughly 561 calories, with 11g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 954mg per serving (41% 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 instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing them into the dip. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor. Chopped cooked shrimp works best, ensuring the pieces remain small for optimal texture.
Is there a way to make this dip healthier?
Absolutely! You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and a light salad dressing to cut down on calories. Additionally, swapping margarine for olive oil can enhance the flavor while keeping it healthier. Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also boost the nutritional value and freshness of the dip.
How long can I make this dip in advance?
You can prepare this shrimp dip a day ahead of your event. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. However, it’s best to add the shrimp just before serving to keep them from breaking down too much.
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).