Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
If you love the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors combined with fresh seafood, the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful appetizer blends tender poached shrimp with smooth cream cheese, bright lemon zest, and savory seasonings, all elegantly rolled into a log and coated in vibrant parsley. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to savor—perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply elevating your snack game. Trust me, once you make this shrimp dip log, it will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe, but you’ll find each one is simple and straightforward. Every component plays a crucial role—from the fresh shrimp that adds a delicate texture, to the cream cheese that creates its luscious creaminess, to the lemon zest that brings a bright pop of flavor.
- 12 oz raw shrimp, deveined, tails-on: Fresh yet easy to work with, these shrimp provide the star protein for the dip log.
- 3 tbsp seafood boil seasoning (or Old Bay seasoning): Adds that iconic, savory spice blend that lifts the shrimp taste beautifully.
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Essential for creating that smooth, rich base that binds everything together.
- 1 shallot, minced: Gives a gentle onion flavor without overpowering the delicate seafood.
- 1 lemon, zested and sliced: The zest surprises you with bright citrus notes, while the slices help infuse flavor during poaching.
- 1/2 cup dried parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous coating that adds both color and flavor to the final presentation.
- For Serving: Crackers, veggies, mini toast, sesame sticks, or pretzels offer fantastic vehicles for scooping the rich dip.
How to Make Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon
Start by zesting the lemon carefully, setting the zest aside to be folded into the dip later. Then, slice the lemon into thick rounds. These slices play a key role in flavoring the shrimp while poaching, gently infusing them with a subtle citrus brightness you won’t want to miss.
Step 2: Poach the Shrimp
Bring a large pot of water to a boil—around 8 cups works perfectly. Add in your lemon slices alongside the seafood boil seasoning or Old Bay. Once this aromatic mixture is ready, add the raw shrimp, cover the pot immediately, then remove it from the heat. Let the shrimp sit in this flavorful hot water for about 5 to 6 minutes until they turn a lovely pink color and are firm to the touch, signaling perfect doneness.
Step 3: Cool the Shrimp
While the shrimp are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. This step is vital to stop the cooking instantly, preserving that delicate texture and sweetness. Transfer the shrimp to the ice bath, cool them completely, and then pat dry. Remove tails if you prefer a smoother texture for the dip.
Step 4: Make the Shrimp Dip
In a clean mixing bowl, combine your room-temperature cream cheese with the minced shrimp and shallot. Add the lemon zest for that burst of citrus flavor. Stir everything until well blended—a simple step that transforms these ingredients into a creamy, irresistible spread.
Step 5: Form the Log
Spread out a large sheet of plastic wrap on your counter. Spoon the shrimp and cream cheese mixture onto it and shape it into a log. Wrap tightly with the plastic wrap, smoothing the shape by hand. This makes the shrimp dip easier to chill and later slice like a beautiful cheese log.
Step 6: Chill the Log
Pop your wrapped shrimp log into the refrigerator for about 2 hours to let it firm up nicely. If you’re in a rush, 45 minutes in the freezer will also work. The chill makes the texture perfect for slicing and rolling in herbs.
Step 7: Coat with Parsley
Lay a clean sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on the counter and sprinkle it liberally with dried parsley. Unwrap the chilled log, then roll it gently but fully in the parsley so the vibrant green coats every inch. This not only adds beautiful color but fresh flavor and a bit of texture for that wow factor.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Your Shrimp Dip Log Recipe is now ready to be the star of any gathering. Transfer it to a charming platter, and serve alongside a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, mini toasts, or sesame sticks for scooping. Don’t forget a sharp knife to slice into perfect portions. It’s an inviting, tasty appetizer that everyone will talk about!
How to Serve Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtful garnishes enhances the presentation and flavor. Think fresh parsley sprigs or a few lemon wedges on the side to brighten flavors just before eating. You can also sprinkle some smoked paprika or additional seafood seasoning for a subtle kick that adds depth without overpowering the shrimp’s tenderness.
Side Dishes
The Shrimp Dip Log Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh vegetables like celery sticks, cucumber slices, or colorful bell pepper strips, which offer a refreshing crunch. A selection of artisanal crackers or toasted baguette slices also makes a perfect vehicle for this creamy dip, balancing texture and flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Slice the shrimp log into bite-sized rounds and arrange them on a stylish platter with edible flowers and herbs for a festive touch. You could also serve it alongside a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a citrus twist, turning your appetizer game into a full-on sensory experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover shrimp dip log should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties or quick snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze the shrimp dip log if needed, but make sure it is well wrapped in plastic and then placed into a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn. While freezing may slightly change the texture of the cream cheese, it’s a handy way to keep the dip for up to one month.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dip, reheating is not recommended. Instead, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator and serve cold for the best texture and flavor. If your dip feels a bit firm after chilling, letting it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes will make it easier to spread again.
FAQs
Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp?
While cooked shrimp can save time, poaching the shrimp fresh as instructed in the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe ensures the best texture and flavor. Pre-cooked shrimp might make the dip less creamy and smooth.
What can I substitute for seafood boil seasoning?
If you don’t have seafood boil seasoning or Old Bay, a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can offer a similar flavor profile to keep that delicious seasoning punch.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before poaching to get the best results in both texture and flavor for the shrimp dip log.
Can I make the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe vegan or vegetarian?
This specific recipe relies on shrimp and cream cheese for its signature taste, but you can experiment with mashed chickpeas or artichokes and use vegan cream cheese for a creative twist that caters to different dietary needs.
How far in advance can I prepare the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe?
This dip log is ideal when made a few hours ahead or even the day before your event. Chilling it allows all the flavors to meld wonderfully, making it even tastier at serving time.
Final Thoughts
The Shrimp Dip Log Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels fancy but is incredibly straightforward to prepare. Its vibrant flavors, beautiful presentation, and creamy texture make it a favorite for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to more formal celebrations. Give it a try and watch it become a highlight of your appetizer lineup—you’re going to love sharing this delicious recipe with friends and family!
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Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Shrimp Dip Log is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer combining tender poached shrimp with creamy cream cheese and zesty lemon, all coated in dried parsley. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it pairs beautifully with crackers, veggies, or toast for a delicious and elegant snack.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Log:
- 12 oz raw shrimp, deveined, tails-on
- 3 tbsp seafood boil seasoning (or Old Bay seasoning)
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and sliced
- 1/2 cup dried parsley
For Serving:
- Crackers
- Vegetables (such as celery, carrots, cucumber)
- Mini toast
- Sesame sticks
- Pretzels
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon: Zest the lemon and set the zest aside for later use. Cut the rest of the lemon into thick slices to flavor the poaching water.
- Poach the Shrimp: Bring about 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the lemon slices and seafood boil seasoning to infuse the water with flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the boiling water, cover the pot, then immediately remove it from the heat. Let the shrimp sit in the hot water for 5-6 minutes until fully pink and opaque.
- Cool the Shrimp: While the shrimp cook, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water.
- Shock the Shrimp: Transfer the cooked shrimp into the ice bath to stop the cooking process and chill them thoroughly. Remove tails if desired, and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Make the Shrimp Dip: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced shrimp, minced shallot, and reserved lemon zest. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Form the Log: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spoon the shrimp-cream cheese mixture onto it and shape into a firm log. Wrap tightly with the plastic wrap, smoothing it out to maintain the shape.
- Chill the Log: Refrigerate the wrapped shrimp log for 2 hours or freeze for 45 minutes to let it firm up properly.
- Coat with Parsley: Spread dried parsley on a piece of clean plastic wrap or parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled shrimp log and roll it over the parsley until completely coated.
- Serve: Place the parsley-coated shrimp log on a serving platter. Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables, mini toast, sesame sticks, or pretzels along with a serving knife for easy slicing.
Notes
- Use seafood boil seasoning like Old Bay for authentic flavor; substitute with your favorite seasoning blend if needed.
- Keeping the shrimp tails on during poaching adds flavor and makes removal easier after cooking.
- Chilling the dip log well is crucial for firm slices and easy handling.
- Dried parsley helps add color and a subtle herb flavor to the dip log.
- This dip can be made a day in advance for convenience.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best bright citrus flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning in the cream cheese mixture to taste before forming the log if desired.
- Serve chilled and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: American
