If you’re looking to impress your guests at your next gathering, look no further than delightful shrimp cocktail appetizer bites. These savory morsels combine the elegance of classic shrimp cocktails with a perfectly portioned twist, making them an ideal finger food for any occasion. Not only are they visually appealing, but their delicious flavors leave a lasting impression that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Furthermore, shrimp appetizer bites are incredibly versatile, allowing you to infuse your culinary creativity. Whether you serve them at a formal dinner party or a casual get-together, these seafood bites are sure to be a hit. Dive into this delectable world of shrimp cocktail-inspired treats, where each bite bursts with flavor and excitement!
Why Choose Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites?
Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, making them an ideal choice for any gathering. First and foremost, they offer a delightful seafood experience that will please both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts. These bite-sized treats not only look impressive but also are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the company of your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, shrimp are low in calories and packed with protein, making them a healthier option compared to other heavy appetizers. For a delightful addition to your spread, consider pairing these bites with dishes like Honey Walnut Shrimp. This combination will elevate your appetizer lineup while keeping it seafood-centric. Ultimately, choosing Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites ensures a vibrant, flavorful offering that complements a variety of party themes, all while inviting guests to indulge in a classic yet contemporary dish.
Ingredients for Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites:
These delightful Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites are easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box phyllo cups (15 per box)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Pinch of black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon Old Bay seafood seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 4-5 large pre-cooked shrimp, peeled, tails off, deveined, and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the homemade cocktail sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon horseradish (or to taste)
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
To assemble, blend the cream cheese, mayonnaise, black pepper, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, chopped shrimp, and parsley in a bowl. Fill each phyllo cup with a generous portion of the mixture. Serve these tasty bites alongside the homemade cocktail sauce for the perfect pairing. If you’re looking for more savory snacks, you might enjoy Honey Walnut Shrimp.
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Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites You’ll Love to Serve
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delicious shrimp cocktail appetizer bites served in crispy phyllo cups, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
1 box phyllo cups 15 per box
2 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
pinch black pepper
⅛ teaspoon Old Bay seafood seasoning
¼ teaspoon fresh lemon zest
4–5 large pre-cooked shrimp peeled
tails off
deveined
and chopped finely
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
½ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon horseradish or according to your taste
¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, black pepper, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped shrimp and parsley gently.
- Spoon the shrimp mixture into each phyllo cup filling them generously.
- Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the cups are baking, prepare the cocktail sauce by mixing ketchup, horseradish, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
- Serve the shrimp cocktail appetizer bites warm with the homemade cocktail sauce on the side.
Notes
Feel free to adjust horseradish based on your spice preference. These bites can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 phyllo cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites, phyllo cups, seafood appetizer, cocktail sauce
How to Prepare :
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, gently mix the cream cheese and mayonnaise in a bowl. Add a pinch of black pepper, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon zest to elevate the flavors. Once blended, incorporate the finely chopped shrimp and parsley. This delightful mixture will fill your phyllo cups later.
Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet and lightly fill each cup with the shrimp mixture. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cups become golden and crisp.
Meanwhile, whip up a simple cocktail sauce by combining ketchup, horseradish, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Adjust the horseradish to suit your taste. Once the bites are ready, serve warm topped with a dollop of the homemade sauce for a burst of flavor.
For a delicious take on shrimp bites, check out these simple garlic shrimp for a flavorful twist. For a thorough guide on shrimp cocktail bites, visit Kudos Kitchen by Renee. Enjoy your delightful starter that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering!
Serving Suggestions :
For a delightful pairing, serve your Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites with a zesty dipping sauce, like horseradish cocktail sauce, which complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness. You can elevate the experience further by accompanying them with refreshing elements like lemon wedges and fresh parsley. For a more substantial offering, arrange your shrimp bites on a platter alongside other seafood treats, such as the flavorful Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp. This combination creates a stunning seafood spread ideal for gatherings.
To add variety, consider including some crunchy veggie sticks or tortilla chips. These can provide texture and flavor contrast to your shrimp cocktail. If your guests are craving something heartier, you can even serve them with a rich Mississippi Sin Dip, which provides a creamy, cheesy dip option for a delicious twist. Lastly, don’t forget to offer an enticing cocktail or mocktail to wash it all down, enhancing the overall dining experience!
Storage Tips for Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites:
To maximize freshness, store your Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites in an airtight container. This helps maintain their flavor and prevent any odor absorption from your fridge. If possible, layer the shrimp and sauce separately. It not only preserves taste but also keeps the shrimp from becoming soggy. For optimal storage, consume these bites within two days. They taste best when fresh. If you’ve made a larger batch, consider freezing some. To freeze, portion the appetizer bites into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. You can always reheat them gently for a quick appetizer at your next gathering.
While these cocktail bites are classic, you might also enjoy trying out other seafood options like Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup for a warm, delightful twist. Storing your shrimp appetizers correctly will ensure you savor every bite during your celebrations.
Nutritional Information for Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites:
Shrimp cocktail appetizer bites offer a delightful blend of protein and flavor. Each serving provides approximately 120 calories, with 20 grams of protein and just 3 grams of carbohydrates. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they promote heart health and support cognitive function. For another scrumptious shrimp recipe, check out these High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp that perfect for balancing flavor and nutrition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients do I need for Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer Bites?
For delightful shrimp cocktail appetizer bites, gather fresh shrimp, cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, herbs, and skewers. Additionally, consider adding flavor enhancers like avocado or fresh vegetables. The simplicity of these ingredients will allow for a fresh, appealing presentation.
How do I prepare the shrimp?
Begin by cleaning and deveining the shrimp, then boil or sauté them briefly until they turn pink. Alternatively, grilling can add a smoky flavor. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to maintain their tender texture, perfect for dipping.
Can I make these shrimp bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and chill the shrimp cocktail appetizer bites in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble right before serving. This technique saves time during busy gatherings while ensuring freshness.
What pairs well with shrimp cocktail bites?
Complement your shrimp cocktail appetizer with easy sides like garlic butter bread or a zesty salad. You can also explore options like the fiery flavors found in fiery Cajun shrimp-stuffed jalapeños to enhance your culinary spread.
How long can shrimp cocktail bites be stored?
If stored properly, shrimp cocktail appetizer bites can last in the fridge for up to two days. It’s best to consume them fresh for optimal taste and quality, but they can still hold up for a short time in an airtight container.
Are shrimp cocktail bites a good choice for parties?
Indeed, shrimp cocktail bites are perfect for parties! They are easy to assemble, visually appealing, and cater to various dietary preferences. Guests will love indulging in these fresh, savory bites, making them a memorable addition to any gathering.