Shrimp Aspic
Shrimp aspic is a chilled savory jelly delicately flavored with tomato, chili sauce, and lemon, studded with crunchy pickles and celery. Perfect for elegant gatherings or light appetizers, it offers a refreshing and visually appealing dish that combines the tang of tomato with the crispness of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak gelatin in cold water for a few minutes until softened.
- Add hot and cold tomato soup; stir until gelatin is completely dissolved.
- When mixture is slightly cooled, add chili sauce and lemon juice; stir well.
- Set aside and allow to cool until it begins to thicken.
- Add chopped dill pickles and diced celery to the mixture.
- Pour into mold and refrigerate until fully hardened, several hours.
- Serve chilled on lettuce leaves with mayonnaise.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using a spicy chili sauce or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with diced vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. For a more robust taste, try incorporating fresh herbs such as dill or parsley. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to achieve a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp aspic chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves, drizzled with mayonnaise for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Quick Oyster Soup as a starter or alongside a green salad for a light lunch. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs or additional pickles on the side, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shrimp aspic can last for up to 3 days. To serve leftovers, simply slice and serve chilled, or allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving. Avoid reheating as it is best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Aspic contains roughly 102 calories, with 7g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% 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 soup for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different soups. A vegetable or clam chowder could be used instead of tomato soup for a unique flavor. Just ensure that the chosen soup complements the other ingredients, particularly the chili sauce and lemon juice.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of shrimp aspic, simply omit the shrimp and replace it with diced vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added texture. Ensure that the gelatin used is plant-based, such as agar-agar, to maintain a vegetarian-friendly dish.
What can I serve with shrimp aspic?
Shrimp aspic is versatile and pairs well with light salads or seafood dishes. Consider serving it alongside Party Oyster Crackers for a delightful contrast. It also complements a chilled white wine or a refreshing cocktail, making it perfect for casual gatherings or holiday celebrations.
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).