Shrimp In Packet
Juicy shrimp baked in a flavorful packet with creamy cheeses, pimientos, and lemon, perfect for a quick, elegant seafood dish suited for elegant dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lay out four squares of aluminum foil or greased heavy brown paper, each measuring about 12 inches.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Roquefort cheese, and chopped pimientos.
- Place a portion of the cheese mixture on each foil square.
- Top each with raw shrimp and a slice of lemon.
- Fold the foil or paper to seal the packets securely.
- Bake or grill the packets until the shrimp are cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot, carefully opening the packets to reveal the flavorful shrimp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If Roquefort cheese is unavailable, try using blue cheese or gorgonzola as a substitute. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, include some red pepper flakes in the cheese mixture. This dish is inspired by American recipes and can be customized to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp packets hot, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the juices. These packets also pair beautifully with Easy Baked Fish Fillets for a delightful seafood feast. Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful presentation. A chilled white wine can complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp. For best results, consume the dish fresh as reheating can affect the texture of the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp In Packet contains roughly 757 calories, with 21g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1533mg per serving (67% 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, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This ensures that they cook evenly and don't release excess water during baking or grilling.
What if I don't have aluminum foil?
If aluminum foil isn't available, you can use heavy brown paper or parchment paper as an alternative. Just ensure that the paper is greased well to prevent sticking and that you seal the packets tightly to retain moisture.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, about 15-20 minutes in the oven or on the grill. You can also check for an internal temperature of 120°F to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
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).