Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Zesty Béarnaise Sauce

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Quick Béarnaise Sauce

These bacon-wrapped shrimp are not just a treat for the taste buds but also an impressive addition to any meal, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends. With the perfect balance of savory bacon and succulent shrimp, paired with a quick and delicious Béarnaise sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The recipe is simple enough for beginners and quick enough to fit into a busy schedule, making it a fantastic option for both casual and special occasions. Let’s dive into the details of creating this culinary delight!

Total Time: 25 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 shallot, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 16 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 strips of smoked bacon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Béarnaise Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with the minced shallots, dried tarragon, red wine vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
   • Cover the bowl and let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a richer and more complex taste.

2. Wrap the Shrimp:

   • Take the peeled and deveined shrimp and wrap each one with a strip of smoked bacon. Secure the bacon in place by threading a toothpick through it. Ensure the bacon is snugly wrapped around the shrimp for the best results.

3. Cooking Methods:

   • Broiling Method:

     • Preheat your broiler. Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a broiler pan, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
     • Broil the shrimp for about 5 minutes, or until the bacon begins to crisp up. Turn the shrimp over and broil for an additional few minutes until the bacon is crispy all over and the shrimp is cooked through.
     • Remove from the broiler and let the shrimp drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Keep the shrimp warm while you prepare to serve.

   • Grilling Method:

     • Prepare your barbecue for medium-high heat and lightly brush the grill rack with oil to prevent sticking.
     • Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the grill and cook, covered, for approximately 8 minutes, turning once midway through. The bacon should become crispy and the shrimp should be firm and opaque.
     • Remove the shrimp from the grill, discard the toothpicks, and serve immediately.

4. Serving:

   • Arrange the warm bacon-wrapped shrimp on a platter and serve alongside the prepared Béarnaise sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or as an elegant appetizer for a special occasion.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 55.3
• Fat: 4.2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.9g
• Cholesterol: 13.9mg
• Sodium: 178.7mg
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Protein: 2.4g

Tips:

• If you prefer a spicier Béarnaise sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
• For a slightly different flavor, you can use maple bacon instead of smoked bacon for a touch of sweetness.

This recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp with quick Béarnaise sauce is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re cooking for a casual gathering or a romantic evening, these shrimp will surely be a hit. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite of this delightful dish! 🌟🍤🥂