These prosciutto-wrapped shrimp are a fantastic treat, combining juicy shrimp with salty, crispy prosciutto. They make for a perfect appetizer or a fun snack!
Wrapping shrimp in prosciutto is a game-changer. I love how easy they are to grill or bake! Plus, they never fail to impress guests. Seriously, who doesn’t love shrimp? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp is key here. Try to use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best taste. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with scallops or even chicken if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Prosciutto: This Italian cured ham brings a wonderful saltiness. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter option—just keep an eye on the cooking time since bacon may take longer to crisp up.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, but you can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor. Each will still provide a nice base for the marinade.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon brings brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but it won’t have the same punch. Lime juice can be a nice alternative too!
How Do You Ensure the Prosciutto Gets Crispy?
Achieving perfectly crispy prosciutto wrapped around shrimp is all about cooking properly. Here’s how:
- Make sure your grill is preheated before adding the shrimp. This helps the prosciutto get crispy.
- Don’t crowd the shrimp! Give them space, as this allows heat to circulate and crisp them up.
- Watch the cooking time closely. Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them, and take them off as soon as they turn pink. Overcooking can make them tough.
After removing them from the heat, let them sit just a minute to crisp up a bit more before serving. Enjoy your cooking!
Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on)
- 8-10 thin slices of prosciutto, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes marinating the shrimp, then just a few minutes grilling or broiling them to crispy perfection. Fast and fabulous!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re opting to bake, set your oven to broil. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and sizzles just right when the shrimp hit the heat.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Grab a spoon and mix well so all shrimp are coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare for the next step.
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Grab your prosciutto strips! Take one strip and wrap it around each shrimp, covering the main body but leaving the tail exposed. If you want to be sure they stay wrapped, you can secure them with a toothpick.
4. Cook the Wrapped Shrimp:
Place the prosciutto-wrapped shrimp on your grill or grill pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the prosciutto gets nice and crispy. If baking, arrange them on a baking sheet and broil for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re ready, remove the shrimp from heat. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and rosemary sprigs if you like. These shrimp are best enjoyed warm, either on their own as a tempting appetizer or served with a light salad. Enjoy your deliciously juicy and crispy prosciutto wrapped shrimp!
Can I Use Raw Shrimp Instead of Cooked?
Yes, you should use raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. They’ll cook quickly on the grill or under the broiler, and they will absorb the marinade flavors beautifully!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto-wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in a warm oven or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through without overcooking.
What Can I Serve with These Shrimp?
These shrimp are lovely on their own, but you can serve them with a simple salad, on top of pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables. They also pair well with a light dipping sauce, like a garlic aioli or lemon butter!
Can I Make These in Advance?
You can marinate the shrimp and wrap them in prosciutto ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before cooking. This way, they’ll be ready to go when you’re ready to cook!
