Shrimp Stuffed Mirlitons
Shrimp stuffed mirlitons offer a delightful blend of tender squash filled with savory shrimp, onions, and herbs, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer mirlitons in salted water until tender; cut in halves. Remove seeds and spoon out pulp.
- Mix pulp with bread crumbs.
- Saute onions, garlic, and shrimp in butter over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently; then cool.
- Add beaten eggs, chopped parsley, and thyme to the shrimp mixture.
- Fill the mirliton shells with the mixture; sprinkle the top with bread crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake for 25 minutes at 375°F until golden and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil. If you don't have mirlitons, zucchini or eggplant can work as substitutes. Adding a touch of hot sauce can enhance the flavor profile similar to Buffalo Shrimp Sauce. Make sure to not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp stuffed mirlitons make a delightful appetizer or main dish. Pair them with a fresh green salad or a side of Delmarva Crab And Corn Chowder for a complete meal. A light white wine or a citrusy cocktail complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover shrimp stuffed mirlitons can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Stuffed Mirlitons contains roughly 598 calories, with 17g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (91% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1675mg per serving (73% 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 absolutely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This will ensure that the stuffing maintains the right consistency and flavor.
How do I know when the mirlitons are cooked properly?
The mirlitons are done when they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, usually after simmering for 15-20 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy and difficult to stuff.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed mirlitons a day in advance. Assemble them completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving to ensure they are hot and fresh.
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).