Christmas Holiday Appetizers: Tuna Salad with Crackers and Spicy Shrimp Skewers
Craving a delectable and satisfying dish that combines the richness of tuna with the zing of Spanish flavors? Look no further! Our Spanish Tuna Salad with Crackers and Spicy Shrimp Skewers recipe is the perfect choice.
This vibrant dish showcases the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine with the fusion of tuna, olives, paprika, and more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a gourmet delight, this recipe is a sure winner. Let’s dive into the culinary journey step by step.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
To create this mouthwatering Spanish feast, gather these top-quality ingredients:
- For the Tuna Salad with Crackers:
- 2 tins of tuna in olive oil (100 grams / 3.25 oz each)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (115 grams)
- 1 shallot
- 1 clove garlic
- 8 pimento stuffed green olives
- A handful of crackers
- Sea salt & black pepper
- For the Spicy Shrimp Skewers:
- 12 raw jumbo shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp hot smoked Spanish paprika (1.15 grams)
- Sea salt & black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting the Culinary Masterpiece
Tuna Salad with Crackers
- Prepare the Tuna: Drain the contents of 2 tins of tuna in olive oil into a sieve placed over a bowl. Gently mix the tuna to remove excess oil and transfer it into a large bowl, discarding the oil.
- Add Flavor: Introduce 1/2 cup of creamy mayonnaise to the tuna. Finely chop 1 shallot and 1 clove of garlic, adding them to the mix. Also, roughly chop 8 pimento stuffed green olives. Season the blend with a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper.
- Serve with Style: Transfer the delightful tuna salad into a serving bowl. Enhance the presentation by placing the bowl in a larger serving dish and arranging some crackers around the tuna salad. This Spanish Tuna Salad with Crackers is now ready to charm your taste buds.
Spicy Shrimp Skewers
- Prepare the Marinade: Begin by adding 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil to a bowl. Finely grate 2 cloves of garlic and introduce 1/2 tsp of hot smoked Spanish paprika. Whisk these components together until they form a fragrant marinade.
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat dry 12 raw jumbo shrimp using paper towels. Thread the shrimp onto wooden skewers, creating an appealing arrangement. Brush the prepared marinade generously over the shrimp skewers. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and black pepper to enhance the taste.
- Grill to Perfection: Heat a non-stick grilling pan over medium heat. After 4 minutes, add the shrimp skewers to the pan, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Cook each side for 60 to 90 seconds, allowing the spices to infuse and the shrimp to cook to succulent perfection.
- Serve the Zest: Once cooked, promptly remove the shrimp skewers from the heat. Transfer them to a serving dish and get ready to relish the bold and spicy flavors of these Spicy Shrimp Skewers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use canned tuna in water instead of tuna in olive oil? A: Absolutely! While tuna in olive oil adds richness, you can opt for tuna in water to reduce the oil content. The flavor might vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.
Q: What is the role of Spanish paprika in the recipe? A: Spanish paprika infuses a smoky and slightly spicy flavor into the shrimp, giving the dish its distinctive Spanish twist.
Q: Can I substitute the pimento stuffed olives with regular olives? A: While pimento-stuffed olives provide a unique flavor, you can use regular olives if you prefer. The pimento-stuffed variety adds a touch of sweetness and color.
Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming too tough while grilling? A: Shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking them. Follow the recommended cooking time and ensure the pan is heated to medium to prevent toughness.
Q: Can I serve the tuna salad and shrimp skewers together? A: Absolutely! The contrasting flavors and textures of the tuna salad and shrimp skewers complement each other beautifully on the same plate.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe? A: Certainly! You can create a vegetarian version by substituting the shrimp with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
Embark on a culinary adventure with our Spanish Tuna Salad with Crackers and Spicy Shrimp Skewers recipe. This fusion of Mediterranean ingredients and zesty spices will transport you to the vibrant streets of Spain. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a culinary explorer, this dish promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Gather the ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in a mouthwatering feast that celebrates the essence of Spanish cuisine.
