Gamberi al Lardo: A Delightful Italian Appetizer
If you’re looking for a sophisticated yet simple appetizer to impress your guests, Gamberi al Lardo is a perfect choice. The combination of tender shrimp, savory lardo, and creamy cannellini bean sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe. This dish brings the rustic charm of Italian cuisine straight to your table, ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual dinner with friends. With a few easy-to-follow steps, you can elevate your appetizer game with this unique and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients for Gamberi al Lardo (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled, tails on) | 12 |
| Lardo (Italian cured pork fat) | 12 slices |
| Fresh rosemary sprigs | 2-3 sprigs |
| Canned cannellini beans | 250g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | to taste |
| Sweet paprika | a pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~20g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Saturated Fat | ~5g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Instructions for Gamberi al Lardo
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by removing the shells from the shrimp, keeping the tails intact. This will help with presentation and make them easier to eat. Afterward, lay each shrimp flat and prepare to wrap them in the lardo.
Step 2: Wrap the Shrimp in Lardo
Take the 12 slices of lardo and carefully wrap each shrimp with a slice. Under each slice of lardo, insert a couple of sprigs of fresh rosemary. This will infuse the shrimp with the aromatic flavors of rosemary as it cooks, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Step 3: Cooking the Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking tray and cook them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. The lardo should melt and crisp up slightly, while the shrimp will become tender and juicy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Step 4: Prepare the Cannellini Bean Sauce
While the shrimp are cooking, it’s time to prepare the creamy cannellini bean sauce. Drain the canned cannellini beans and transfer them to a food processor or blender. Add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, along with a pinch of fine salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. The result will be a rich, velvety sauce that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the oven and arrange them on a serving plate. Drizzle the cannellini bean sauce around the shrimp, ensuring each piece is accompanied by a generous amount of the creamy sauce. Sprinkle a pinch of sweet paprika over the top for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color. Serve the Gamberi al Lardo immediately, while the shrimp are still warm and succulent.
Serving Suggestions
Gamberi al Lardo is best enjoyed as an appetizer, ideally paired with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a crisp, dry Prosecco. The smoothness of the cannellini bean sauce and the rich, savory taste of the lardo balance beautifully with a refreshing drink, making it an ideal start to any meal.
Conclusion
This simple yet elegant dish brings together the flavors of Italy in one delicious bite. The combination of the sweet, tender shrimp, the rich lardo, and the creamy cannellini bean sauce creates an unforgettable appetizer that will surely become a favorite in your repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, Gamberi al Lardo is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and exceptional taste.
