Shrimp Spread
A creamy, savory shrimp spread with a smooth texture and rich flavors, perfect for serving as an appetizer or party dip. The combination of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and fresh shrimp creates a delightful dish that pairs well with crackers, bread, or vegetables, appealing to seafood lovers and appetizer enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1/4 cup water and tomato soup in a large pan.
- Melt the Philadelphia cream cheese into the soup mixture and beat until smooth.
- Dissolve the gelatine in water and add to the soup mixture.
- Add mayonnaise to the mixture and stir well.
- Fold in chopped onion, chopped celery, and cooked shrimp.
- Pour the mixture into a greased mold.
- Refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours until set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Shrimp Spread, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce for extra zest. If you don't have gelatine, you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Pairing this dish with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks makes for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shrimp Spread chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or soup. This dish also complements seafood recipes, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Shrimp Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, you can serve it cold directly from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a softer texture. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Spread contains roughly 216 calories, with 9g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% 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 fresh shrimp instead of cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp, but be sure to cook them first before adding them to the mixture. Boil or sauté the shrimp until they are pink and opaque, then chop and fold them into the spread as directed.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Certainly! You can substitute the Philadelphia cream cheese with a lighter cream cheese or Greek yogurt to reduce calories. Additionally, using low-fat mayonnaise can help decrease the overall fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
What can I serve with the Shrimp Spread?
This Shrimp Spread is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crunchy vegetable sticks, assorted crackers, or toasted bread. For a more substantial meal, it can be enjoyed with a fresh garden salad or as part of a seafood platter.
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).