Grilled Shrimp with Apple and Charred Scallions
Shrimp come from all over the world, but I think the kind from coastal Georgia and the Gulf is the best and it's pretty much a sustainable product. Here, he prepares the shrimp as a light appetizer with green apple, charred scallions, smoked paprika and sesame seeds. More Gulf Coast Seafood Recipes
Shrimp come from all over the world, but I think the kind from coastal Georgia and the Gulf is the best and it's pretty much a sustainable product. Here, he prepares the shrimp as a light appetizer with green apple, charred scallions, smoked paprika and sesame seeds. More Gulf Coast Seafood Recipes
- 1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
- 6 scallions
- 1/4 cup plus 2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- 1 pound medium shrimp shelled and deveined
- 1 granny smith appleâ—peeled cored and julienned
- Carbohydrate 2.01199090647393 g
- Cholesterol 86.1825503 mg
- Fat 1.88328920253146 g
- Fiber 0.605634366002119 g
- Protein 12.0616849181229 g
- Saturated Fat 0.312322996599363 g
- Serving Size 1 1 first-course serving (78g)
- Sodium 1833.78723532472 mg
- Sugar 1.40635654047181 g
- Trans Fat 0.318701367281054 g
- Calories 75 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon of the olive oil with the vinegar, lime juice, paprika and mustard. Season the dressing with salt and pepper.
- In a large saucepan of salted boiling water, blanch the scallions until bright green, about 1 minute. Drain the scallions, rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Light a grill. Rub the scallions with 1/2 tablespoon of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the scallions over high heat until lightly charred, about 30 seconds per side.
- Grill the shrimp until lightly charred and white throughout, about 1 minute per side.
- In a medium bowl, toss the apple with 1 tablespoon of the dressing.
- Cut the grilled scallions into 2-inch lengths.
- Scatter the scallions and apple on a platter and arrange the shrimp on top.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the shrimp, sprinkle with the sesame seeds and serve.
A Coastal Delight: Grilled Shrimp with Apple and Charred Scallions
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a challenge. But I’ve learned that even a quick weeknight dinner can be elevated with a little creativity and fresh ingredients. This recipe for Grilled Shrimp with Apple and Charred Scallions is a perfect example. It's elegant enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough for a Tuesday night meal. The smoky char of the shrimp and scallions complements the crisp sweetness of the Granny Smith apple beautifully, creating a delightful flavor combination. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, which is a huge win in my book!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the cooking technique is straightforward. I love the way the shrimp grills quickly, achieving that perfect balance of tender inside and slightly charred outside. The charred scallions add a subtle smokiness, while the Granny Smith apple provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp. The simple vinaigrette ties it all together, adding just the right amount of acidity and zest. It's a recipe that allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, requiring minimal fuss to create a truly memorable dish.
I often find myself adapting this recipe based on what’s in season. Sometimes I’ll substitute the Granny Smith apple with another variety, like a Honeycrisp or Fuji, depending on my preference and what’s available at the farmer’s market. I’ve also experimented with different types of vinegar in the vinaigrette, from white wine vinegar to apple cider vinegar, each offering a unique twist on the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Plate: This dish is incredibly versatile. It's fantastic served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a main course depending on the occasion and your appetite. I’ve even been known to serve it as a starter at small dinner parties. The presentation is elegant and impressive, making it a perfect dish to share with friends and family. The leftovers, if there are any (which is rare!), are equally delicious cold, making it a great addition to a packed lunch the following day.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Shrimp Selection: Use high-quality, sustainably sourced shrimp for the best flavor. I usually opt for medium-sized shrimp, as they grill evenly and are easy to handle.
- Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Give the shrimp and scallions enough space on the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives to the dish for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
- Spice It Up: For those who like a little more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette.
This Grilled Shrimp with Apple and Charred Scallions recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours as well. The ease of preparation and the incredible flavor make it a recipe I’ll be making again and again.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick and elegant meal that will impress your family and friends (or even just yourself!), give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed. Enjoy!
