When it comes to planning a romantic date night at home, the right appetizer can set the mood for the entire evening. Looking for the perfect seafood recipe that is sure to impress your significant other? Bacon-wrapped shrimp is the perfect option to go. Moreover, this delectable combination of succulent shrimp and crispy bacon is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly very easy to make. In this blog, we will take you through the steps to create the perfect bacon-wrapped shrimp for your special evening.
The Magic of Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Bacon-wrapped shrimp combines the richness of bacon with the delicate flavors of shrimp that you can find at seafood near me. Thus, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that is both savory and indulgent. The shrimp remains tender and juicy while the bacon adds a layer of smokiness and a satisfying crunch. Moreover, this culinary marriage is a match made in heaven, perfect for setting the tone for a romantic date night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is what you will need to make bacon-wrapped shrimp:
For the Shrimp:
12 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
6 slices of bacon (cut in half)
1 teaspoon of olive oil
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Toothpicks
For the Dipping Sauce:
1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious shrimp recipe:
Prep the Shrimp
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Also, this helps ensure that the bacon sticks properly.
Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until they are well coated. Moreover, this not only adds flavor but also helps the bacon adhere to the shrimp.
Wrap the Shrimp in Bacon
Take each half-slice of bacon and wrap it around a seasoned shrimp. Remember to secure the bacon in place by using a toothpick. This step requires a bit of precision, so take your time to make sure the bacon is snugly wrapped.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze and prevent the shrimp from sticking to the pan.
Bake the Shrimp
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Also, keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked for too long.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While the shrimp are in the oven, take this time to make the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Lastly, mix well, taste, and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the bacon-wrapped shrimp are done, remove the toothpicks and serve them on a platter with the dipping sauce. Moreover, these little bites of heaven are best enjoyed hot, and they pair wonderfully with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing cocktail.
Sides to Consider
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a delectable appetizer that pairs well with a variety of side dishes to create a more satisfying meal. Here are some side dishes to complement this dish:
Creamy Risotto: A creamy risotto, such as a lemon or parmesan risotto, adds a touch of sophistication to your meal. The creamy texture and rich flavor of risotto pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and succulent shrimp.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that goes well with just about anything. The fluffy, buttery potatoes complement the bacon-wrapped shrimp’s flavors and offer a comforting element to the meal.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or your favorite dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory bacon-wrapped shrimp. Also, consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra freshness.
Herb-Infused Rice: Cooked rice seasoned with fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley adds a fragrant and flavorful element to the meal. It is a simple and tasty side dish option.
Crusty Bread or Baguette: Slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette are great for mopping up the delicious dipping sauce. However, you can also offer a variety of spreads like herbed butter for added flavor.
Fruit Salsa: A fruity salsa made with ingredients like mango, pineapple, and red onion provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory shrimp and bacon. It is a delightful and colorful side option.
Tips for Success
Making bacon-wrapped shrimp is relatively simple, but there are a few tips that can elevate your dish and impress your date even more:
- Quality Matters: Choose high-quality shrimp and bacon for the best results. Large, jumbo shrimp work well for this dish, and thick-cut bacon is ideal for wrapping.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let the shrimp marinate in the seasoning mixture for at least 15 minutes before wrapping them in bacon. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp.
- Do not Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp in the oven. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and less enjoyable. Remember, they should be pink, opaque, and slightly firm to the touch.
- Presentation is Key: When serving, consider garnishing the platter with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to add a touch of elegance and some hearty notes to tantalize your taste buds.
- Customize the Dipping Sauce: Adjust the dipping sauce to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more hot sauce. However, for a tangier sauce, increase the lemon juice.
Conclusion
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a delightful appetizer that is perfect for setting the mood on a romantic date night. The combination of succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and a flavorful dipping sauce is sure to impress your significant other and make your evening memorable. Moreover, with the simple steps and tips outlined, you will be well on your way to creating this delicious seafood that your date will love. So, roll up your sleeves, put on some romantic music, and get ready to enjoy a wonderful evening with a plate of bacon-wrapped shrimp as the star of the show!
