The big game is this weekend! Anyone planning on having a party? Or heading somewhere where you want to bring something to share? I’ve got the perfect munchie to fit the bill, if that’s the case!
Y’all know I love to incorporate seafood into my dishes whenever possible, and for a throw-down like Sunday’s event – it’s always fun to splurge a little bit for your spread…
Since most of my local seafood shacks are closed for the off-season here on the island, I took a road trip “across the bay” to my closest Whole Foods Market – in Hampton Roads, to see what kind of goodness they were offering for the big game!
While I’m usually not a purveyor of pre-made items, their uber-tubs of guacamole have always been a favorite for me (incidentally on sale this week). I’ll usually buy one to snack on with some chips on the way home! So, I decided to use that as a base for my guacamole for both simplicity, and times sake.
For the shrimp salsa, I picked up some of the gorgeous grey shrimp found at their seafood counter. Their fishmongers are always so knowledgeable, and always ready to answer any question you can throw at them! I love that they work with small, local fisheries whenever possible. Knowing that I can still support sustainable fishing practices, while shopping at a large grocer, is very important to me. Just another reason why I love Whole Foods, and everything that they stand for.
So, those shrimp. I roasted them with the shell on (helps to retain moisture and tenderness) with some fresh lemon, oregano, and lots of pepper. Once they were perfectly cooked I let them cool down enough to peel, then give a rough chop. Combined with a little tomato, red onion, jalapeno, lime juice, and a bit of cilantro to brighten it up – the rustic, chunky salsa was the perfect contrast against the smooth, creamy guacamole. And, it was so pretty on the plate!
The perfect addition to your big game day buffet.
Shrimp Guacamole
3/4 lb large shrimp, shells on (cut up the back with shears to remove vein)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 lemon, sliced
olive oil
2 roma tomatoes, chopped
1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
kosher salt
black pepper
1 cup guacamole
tortilla chips
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and drizzle with olive oil. Toss shrimp, garlic, oregano, 2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp of black pepper in a large bowl – with an additional Tbsp of olive oil.
Place onto sheet pan in an even layer. Scatter lemon slices on top. Roast for 15 minutes until shrimp are pink and starting to curl up. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature, before peeling and roughly chopping.
Combine the chopped shrimp, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice to form the salsa. Season to taste with salt.
To plate, I used a large biscuit cutter to form a mold for the guacamole. Not necessary, but makes a prettier presentation! Place the mold in the center of the plate, and fill with guacamole. Top with the shrimp salsa mixture, packing in slightly before removing the mold. Scatter tortilla chips around the edges to serve.
Alternately, you could serve it in a bowl.
Disclosure: I have a partnership with Whole Foods Market and was compensated for my work, but all words and opinions are my own.
