Wild Eats & Treats!

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Recipe: A Savory Delight

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (approximately 16-20 shrimp)
• 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Toothpicks, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes (prevents burning)

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they are not already prepped. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help the seasoning adhere better.

2. Marinate the Shrimp: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place the shrimp in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and allow the shrimp to marinate in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes to soak in the flavors.

3. Prepare the Bacon: While the shrimp are marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.

4. Wrap the Shrimp: Once the shrimp have marinated, remove them from the fridge. Take each half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it in place with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon ends overlap slightly under the shrimp to hold them together during cooking.

5. Bake the Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. If you like, drizzle a small amount of honey over the top of each shrimp for a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky flavors. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are pink and opaque.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the shrimp from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. These delightful bacon-wrapped shrimp can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Recipe Summary:

• Total Preparation Time: Approximately 1 hour (including marinating time)
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per serving (2 shrimp)

These bacon-wrapped shrimp are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish brings an impressive and delicious treat to the table with minimal effort. Bon appétit!