Shimmering Shrimp Mold
Shimmering Shrimp Mold is an elegant, colorful dish featuring layers of lemon-flavored gelatin, cooked shrimp, and a creamy topping infused with herbs and curry. Perfect for parties or special occasions, it combines fresh seafood with tangy and savory flavors, offering a visually stunning and delicious appetizer or salad.
Ingredients
- 2 (3 oz.) packages lemon or lime jello ⓘ
- 2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 2 c. boiling water ⓘ
- 1 c. cold water ⓘ
- 4 tsp. vinegar ⓘ
- 2 c. small cooked shrimp or diced cooked ham or turkey ⓘ
- 1/2 c. diced celery ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped pimiento ⓘ
- 1 c. sour cream or yogurt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 tsp. curry powder (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Dissolve the lemon or lime jello and salt in boiling water.
- Add cold water and vinegar; chill until thickened.
- Mix 1 1/2 cups of the prepared jello with cooked shrimp, celery, pimiento, and 1 1/2 cups of the jello mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into a 6-cup ring mold.
- Chill until set, but not firm.
- Combine the remaining jello with sour cream or yogurt, chopped parsley, chopped onion, and curry powder if using.
- Spoon this mixture into the mold over the first layer.
- Chill until firm, about 4 hours.
- Unmold the mold onto a serving platter and garnish with remaining shrimp.
- Serve with salad greens if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, try using lime jello instead of lemon. Ensure your shrimp are well-drained and chilled before mixing to maintain texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with diced cucumber or avocado. Adjust the salt based on your preference and consider adding a dash of hot sauce for a kick. This dish also complements other seafood recipes, like Tuna Layered Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This shimmering shrimp mold is a showstopper for any gathering. Serve it alongside a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Seasoned Salmon or can be enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer. Consider garnishing with additional parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat as it may alter the texture. If you plan to serve it later, it’s best to keep the salad greens separate until serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shimmering Shrimp Mold contains roughly 317 calories, with 18g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (92% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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 different types of jello flavors?
Yes, you can experiment with different jello flavors like raspberry or orange. However, keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change, so choose a flavor that complements the seafood. Lime jello, for instance, adds a zesty touch that pairs well with shrimp.
How do I ensure the mold releases easily?
To help the mold release easily, lightly coat the inside of your mold with cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil before pouring in the mixture. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before attempting to unmold, and gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance. Just ensure you allow sufficient time for each layer to set properly before adding the next. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap once fully chilled to keep it fresh until serving.
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).