These prosciutto wrapped shrimp are a tasty treat! The salty prosciutto perfectly complements the juicy shrimp, making each bite a little piece of heaven.
These are so easy to make and perfect for parties. I love to serve them with a squeeze of lemon on the side—they always disappear quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish. If you can’t find large shrimp, go for medium. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined for easy eating. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using asparagus or even halloumi cheese, wrapped in prosciutto instead!
Prosciutto: This Italian cured meat adds a salty, rich flavor. If prosciutto isn’t available, you can substitute with bacon or pancetta, keeping in mind that bacon will take slightly longer to cook and may be a bit greasier.
Olive oil: It’s great for flavor and helps crisp the prosciutto. You can substitute it with any neutral oil like avocado or canola oil. However, I love the taste of extra virgin olive oil for this recipe!
Fresh herbs: Parsley and rosemary bring brightness to the shrimp. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs could work too—just use about a third of the amount. I often use a sprinkle of Italian seasoning in a pinch!
How Do I Make the Perfect Wrap with Prosciutto?
Wrapping the shrimp with prosciutto properly is key for a delightful bite. Start by laying the shrimp down on the prosciutto slice, then gently spiral the prosciutto around the shrimp from the tail to the body. Make sure it’s not too tight, allowing for even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Lay the shrimp on the prosciutto slice, with the tail on one end.
- Begin wrapping from the tail, making sure to overlap the slices slightly.
- Slightly tuck in the end of the prosciutto as you finish wrapping to keep it secure.
Taking your time will ensure that each shrimp is well-covered, and with practice, you’ll become a pro at wrapping!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 10 slices of prosciutto, each slice cut in half lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional for serving)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick yet impressive appetizer or snack. Enjoy this flavorful treat in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven or Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, if you prefer to cook on the stove, get your skillet ready on medium-high heat. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry gently with paper towels. This step is important to help the prosciutto adhere better and to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Next, take a half-slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each shrimp. Start at the tail and spiral the prosciutto towards the body, covering most of the shrimp evenly. Place the wrapped shrimp aside on a plate or cutting board.
4. Make the Garlic-Herb Oil:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine this aromatic mixture.
5. Brush the Shrimp:
Using a brush or a spoon, lightly coat the wrapped shrimp with the garlic-herb oil mixture. This will add a wonderful flavor and help the prosciutto crisp up during cooking.
6. Cooking Time:
If you are baking: arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased rack. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until the shrimp are pink and the prosciutto gets crispy.
If you are pan-frying: heat a little olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and the prosciutto crisps up nicely.
7. Serve the Shrimp:
After cooking, carefully remove the shrimp from heat and place them onto a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining garlic-herb oil from the pan or baking sheet over the shrimp for added flavor.
8. Add a Zesty Touch:
Optionally, serve the shrimp with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor. A squeeze of lemon really enhances the dish!
Enjoy your delightful prosciutto wrapped shrimp as they make the perfect appetizer or snack for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking! Thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly before wrapping.
What Can I Use Instead of Prosciutto?
If you don’t have prosciutto, you can substitute it with bacon or pancetta. Keep in mind that bacon will require a longer cooking time to get crispy, while pancetta offers a similar flavor profile and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover prosciutto wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the shrimp in prosciutto and prepare the garlic-herb oil mixture a few hours in advance. Keep the uncooked shrimp covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. This can save you time when you’re ready to serve!
