Christmas Shrimp Parcels with Ginger and Lime

The Christmas shrimp parcels with ginger and lime are a delicate and aromatic appetizer, perfect for a festive dinner. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 12 medium-sized shrimps
  • 1 lime (grated zest and juice)
  • 1 piece of fresh ginger
  • Parchment paper
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley
  • 1 clove of garlic

Preparation

  1. Start by cleaning the shrimp: remove the head and shell, leaving the tail intact. Make a slit on the back and remove the intestinal tract. Rinse under cold running water.
  2. Grate the fresh ginger and lime zest. Transfer to a bowl and add the lime juice, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and a clove of garlic cut in half (which you will remove after flavoring).
  3. Add the shrimps to the bowl and let marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
  5. Cut the parchment paper into squares large enough to comfortably contain the shrimps.
  6. At the center of each square of parchment paper, place a shrimp with some of the marinade.
  7. Close the parchment paper by forming well-sealed parcels, so that the steam is retained inside during cooking.
  8. Arrange the parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10 minutes.
  9. Serve the Christmas parcels still closed, allowing your guests to open them and be surprised by the aroma that will be released.

Did you know?

The Christmas parcels, in addition to being an original way to present the shrimp, allow to preserve all the aromas and flavors inside, thanks to the “en papillote” cooking method. Ginger and lime are two ingredients that pair well with seafood, adding a fresh and slightly spicy note to the dish.

For an Italian touch, you might accompany the parcels with a fresh arugula salad with Parmesan shavings or, if you prefer, sprinkle the ready parcels with some grated mullet roe to enhance the flavor of the sea.

I hope this recipe adds a special touch to your Christmas dinner!