Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp - An Appetizer Worth Wrapping Your Head Around

Towering trays of prosciutto wrapped shrimp are a fixture at upscale cocktail parties. But these elegant appetizers are easy enough to make at home for your next gathering. The combination of salty prosciutto and sweet, succulent shrimp is a match made in hors d'oeuvre heaven. This simple recipe will have your guests ooh-ing and aah-ing with the first bite. Keep reading to get all wrapped up in everything prosciutto shrimp.

A Classic Pairing: Prosciutto and Shrimp

Wrapping shrimp in thin slices of prosciutto instantly elevates this appetizer to luxury status. But the flavors of these two ingredients also complement each other perfectly.

The thin, supple texture of the ham acts as the ideal crispy, salty foil for the plump sweetness of the shrimp. Each bite combines soft and crunchy, briny and rich. It's a match made in culinary heaven.

All About Prosciutto

Prosciutto simply means "ham" in Italian. But not just any ham makes the cut for wrapping shrimp. We're talking about premium, imported dry-cured ham sliced tissue-thin. The curing process concentrates the pork flavor while drying it out for that characteristic melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Opt for prosciutto di Parma if you can find it. This specialty ham from the Parma region of Italy offers a buttery complexity and subtle nuttiness that partners beautifully with the sweet shrimp.

Selecting Shrimp for Wrapping

The shrimp itself also deserves attention. Look for fresh or thawed shrimp in the 21-25 count per pound range. Anything smaller may overcook by the time the prosciutto crisps. Large shrimp also give you more surface area for wrapping.

Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation. Then devein the shrimp by slicing along the back and removing the digestive tract. Rinse well and pat thoroughly dry before wrapping.

How to Wrap Prosciutto Around Shrimp

Wrapping prosciutto around shrimp takes a delicate touch. But follow these simple steps, and you'll get the hang of it in no time:

Step 1: Slice Prosciutto Thinly

The thinner the prosciutto slices, the better they will wrap around the shrimp. Slice it paper-thin before you begin wrapping. Using a sharp knife or deli slicer makes this easier.

Step 2: Cut Prosciutto Into Strips

For easy wrapping, cut each slice lengthwise into 1/2 inch wide strips. The length will depend on the size of your shrimp.

Step 3: Dry Shrimp Thoroughly

Use paper towels to pat shrimp dry. Any moisture will make the prosciutto soggy. Make sure shrimp are as dry as possible.

Step 4: Wrap Shrimp Tightly

Wrap prosciutto strips around each shrimp, overlapping the edges slightly. Wrap tightly enough to adhere, but not so tight that the prosciutto tears.

Step 5: Chill Wrapped Shrimp

Arrange the wrapped shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined pan or plate. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the prosciutto set tightly around the shrimp.

Cooking Your Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp

There are a few different ways you can cook prosciutto wrapped shrimp. Choose the method that works best for your gathering:

Baking

Place chilled shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until prosciutto is crisp.

Broiling

For a quick cook time, broil shrimp on high heat 3-4 inches from element, 2-3 minutes per side.

Grilling

Toss shrimp and some lemon slices on a hot grill. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until prosciutto is crisp.

Pan Frying

Fry shrimp in olive oil over medium-high heat, about 2 minutes per side, until prosciutto is browned and crispy.

Fun Ways to Serve Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp

A platter of prosciutto wrapped shrimp needs nothing more than a squeeze of lemon or lime. But if you want to add some flair, here are some delicious serving ideas:

• Serve on picks with melon balls or cherry tomatoes
• Skewer with fresh basil leaves and bocconcini cheese
• Pile on a toasted baguette with fig jam and arugula
• Toss with pasta, olive oil, and parmesan
• Top Caesar salad with grilled shrimp
• Include in an antipasto spread

Make-Ahead Tips for Stress-Free Entertaining

You don't want to be stuck in the kitchen wrapping shrimp when your guests arrive. Use these make-ahead strategies to enjoy the party:

Wrap Shrimp Ahead

Wrap shrimp up to a day in advance and keep chilled until ready to cook.

Partially Cook the Shrimp

Grill or bake shrimp for 1 minute on each side then finish cooking just before serving.

Set Up a DIY Shrimp Bar

Let guests wrap their own shrimp at the party for interactive fun.

Sensational Shrimp Recipes Beyond Wrapping

Once you've mastered basic prosciutto wrapped shrimp, take your shrimp game to the next level with these easy recipes:

Shrimp Scampi

Butter, garlic, white wine and lemon zest flavor succulent sautéed shrimp. Toss with pasta for a classic Italian dish.

Coconut Shrimp

Coat shrimp in a creamy coconut-panko mixture then fry until golden. Serve with a sweet chili or orange marmalade dipping sauce.

Shrimp Fajitas

Sauté shrimp with onions, peppers and Mexican spices. Pile into warm tortillas with all the fixings for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Shrimp Skewers

Marinate shrimp in garlic, lemon and herbs then thread onto skewers. Grill until plump and juicy for an easy backyard appetizer.

Indulge in the Elegance of Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp

Prosciutto wrapped shrimp never fails to impress guests with its delicate beauty and delightful flavors. With a little practice, you can make this elegant appetizer for your next gathering. Salty, savory prosciutto paired with sweet succulent shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven. Now that you're all wrapped up in everything prosciutto shrimp, it's time to start the party!

FAQs

Can I freeze prosciutto wrapped shrimp?

Yes, freezer friendly. Wrap cooked shrimp tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze in a single layer. Thaw in fridge before serving.

How long will wrapped shrimp keep in the fridge?

Raw wrapped shrimp will keep 24 hours. Cooked shrimp keeps 3-4 days. Discard if any odor or sliminess develops.

What can I use instead of prosciutto?

Thin sliced smoked salmon, pancetta, bacon, phyllo dough, or puff pastry can sub for prosciutto.

What's the best way to prevent soggy prosciutto?

Pat shrimp very dry before wrapping, chill wrapped shrimp before cooking, and don't overcrowd shrimp when cooking.

How do I know shrimp are cooked through?

Shrimp turns opaque throughout when fully cooked. Prosciutto will also become crispy when shrimp is done.