Shrimp with Snappy Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Shrimp with Snappy Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Cooking the Perfect Shrimp Cocktail

Getting cocktail shrimp cooked and chilled can be challenging, but this snappy roasted red pepper dip will make it worthwhile. The dip can be prepared up to two days in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip:

• 2 large garlic cloves
• 1 (7 oz) jar of roasted red peppers, undrained
• 4 oz cream cheese, cut into pieces
• ¾ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/8 cup chopped green onions
• 2 teaspoons chopped jalapeño chili

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 1–2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• Ice for chilling

Instructions

Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Dip:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, add the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers with their liquid, cream cheese pieces, cumin, chopped tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeño chili.
2. Blend: Process the mixture until smooth.
3. Chill: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. (Tip: You can prepare the dip up to two days in advance.)

Cook the Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Boiling Water: Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Add 1–2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning to the water.
2. Rinse the Shrimp: Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and let them drain.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Add the shrimp to the boiling water.
   • Immediately turn off the heat.
   • Stir the shrimp gently to ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the shrimp turning pink and opaque.
4. Timing:
   • Medium Shrimp: Let sit in hot water for 4 minutes.
   • Large Shrimp: Let sit in hot water for 5 minutes.
   • Jumbo Shrimp: Let sit in hot water for 6–7 minutes.
5. Chill the Shrimp:
   • Drain the cooked shrimp.
   • Transfer them to a bowl filled with ice to stop the cooking process and chill them thoroughly.

Serve:

• Presentation: Arrange the chilled shrimp over ice on a serving platter.
• Accompaniment: Serve with the snappy roasted red pepper dip on the side.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked shrimp cocktail with this delightful dip!