Shrimp are a popular seafood ingredient, especially around the holidays. As the new year approaches, many people wonder if shrimp are a good choice for their New Year’s celebrations and meals. There are a few key factors to consider when determining if shrimp are a smart option to ring in the new year.
Nutritional value
Shrimp can be a nutritious part of your diet. Here is an overview of the nutritional value in a 3-ounce serving of shrimp:
– Protein: 18 grams. Shrimp offer a significant amount of protein per serving. Protein provides essential amino acids that support muscle growth and maintenance.
– Selenium: 45 micrograms. Shrimp are high in selenium, an antioxidant mineral. Selenium supports thyroid health and immune function.
– Vitamin B12: 1.4 micrograms. Shrimp contain vitamin B12, which supports red blood cell production and neurological function. Those following plant-based diets must supplement with B12.
– Iron: 0.7 milligrams. Shrimp provide a small amount of iron, an essential mineral that prevents anemia and aids in oxygen transport in the blood.
– Zinc: 1 milligram. Zinc assists with immune function, DNA production, and protein synthesis.
– Omega-3 fatty acids: 134 milligrams. Shrimp contain anti-inflammatory omega-3s that are beneficial for heart and brain health.
So in terms of nutrition, shrimp can be a smart choice thanks to their protein, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
Lower mercury levels
Some types of seafood contain concerning levels of mercury, a heavy metal that can cause neurological damage when consumed in high amounts. The good news is shrimp are very low in mercury since they are smaller, low on the food chain, and have shorter life spans. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children can enjoy shrimp without concern for mercury exposure.
Provide variety
If your New Year’s menu feels boring or repetitive, shrimp can add some flair and new flavors. There are many ways to prepare shrimp that can excite your palate. You can grill lemon pepper shrimp, make coconut shrimp, add shrimp to pasta or salads, or whip up shrimp scampi or shrimp tacos. Playing around with different seasonings and global flavors can keep your New Year’s meal feeling festive.
Appetizer option
In addition to entrees, shrimp work very well as appetizers and finger foods. Guests will enjoy popping peel-and-eat shrimp or shrimp cocktail into their mouths while mingling and awaiting the main course. Easy cold shrimp appetizers require minimal preparation so you can spend more time enjoying the party.
Simple to cook
Cooking shrimp takes just a few minutes, which is helpful when pulling together multiple dishes for a New Year’s meal. Boiling, sauteing, or grilling shrimp is fast and easy. This simplicity allows you more time to prepare side dishes and dress up the table. Even fancy shrimp scampi is beginner-friendly and quick to make.
Festive and celebratory
For many people, shrimp feel like a special treat reserved for important occasions. Serving shrimp at your New Year’s gathering helps add to the festive atmosphere and provides a sense of abundance. Though shrimp can be pricier than chicken or ground beef, working them into your New Year’s menu allows you to indulge and celebrate the holiday.
Pair well with champagne
Bubbly champagne is a staple beverage for New Year’s toasts and countdowns to midnight. The light taste and effervescence of champagne complements the sweet, briny flavor of shrimp. Offering shrimp cocktails or appetizers allows guests to enjoy shrimp with their champagne before the meal.
Potential downsides
While shrimp offer many benefits for New Year’s meals, there are a few potential downsides to keep in mind:
Allergy risks
Shellfish allergies are one of the top food allergies. An estimated 2% of adults in the U.S. have shellfish allergies. If you’re hosting a large party, chances are decent you will have at least one guest with an allergy. Be sure to have non-seafood options on hand.
High cholesterol
Shrimp contain higher amounts of cholesterol compared to other protein sources, with about 160 milligrams cholesterol in a 3-ounce serving. People managing high cholesterol may want to enjoy shrimp in moderation. Still, shrimp contain heart-healthy omega-3s that counteract some of the cholesterol impact.
Can be expensive
Pricewise, shrimp is one of the more expensive proteins. Large shrimp platters as a main course or appetizer can drive up costs for your New Year’s menu. If working with a budget, shrimp may not be financially feasible as the bulk of your meal. Focusing on a few shrimp accents or appetizers may be more cost-effective.
Risk of food poisoning
As with any seafood, improper storage and undercooking shrimp raises the risk for foodborne illnesses. Take care to follow food safety guidelines like refrigerating shrimp promptly and cooking to the proper internal temperature. Food poisoning can quickly put a damper on New Year’s celebrations.
May clash with other flavors
The unique taste of shrimp has the potential to clash with some traditional New Year’s flavors or dishes. For example, serving shrimp with steak or ham may result in a flavor mismatch. Take flavors into account when determining how to incorporate shrimp into your menu.
Best practices for cooking shrimp
If you decide to include shrimp in your New Year’s plans, follow these best practices for safely cooking shrimp:
– Purchase raw, uncooked shrimp that is firm and shiny without an ammonia odor. Avoid shrimp with black spots or a grainy texture.
– Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator if not using immediately. Do not thaw at room temperature.
– Peel, devein, and rinse shrimp just before cooking to minimize handling.
– Use separate cutting boards, utensils, and plates for shrimp to prevent cross-contamination.
– Wash hands, cooking tools, surfaces, and vegetables that contact raw shrimp to avoid spreading bacteria.
– Cook shrimp until they turn pink and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Discard any undercooked shrimp.
– Refrigerate cooked shrimp within 2 hours; use within 3-4 days. Freeze for longer storage.
New Year’s shrimp recipes
Ready to put shrimp on the New Year’s Eve menu? Here are [5] festive shrimp recipes perfect for celebrating:
1. Garlic butter shrimp scampi
This classic shrimp scampi is decadent thanks to butter, garlic, lemon, and white wine. Serve over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup butter, divided
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Cook garlic for 1 minute.
2. Raise heat to medium-high. Add shrimp and cook 2 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Add wine and lemon juice and cook 1 minute.
4. Remove pan from heat. Stir in remaining butter and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve shrimp with sauce drizzled over. Garnish with lemon wedges.
2. Baked coconut shrimp
Get your coconut shrimp fix without deep frying. This healthier baked version uses panko, coconut, and citrus flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp lime zest
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg white
– Salt and pepper
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment.
2. In shallow dish, beat egg white. In second dish, combine panko, coconut, lime zest, salt and pepper.
3. Dip shrimp in egg, then panko mixture pressing to adhere. Arrange on sheet.
4. Bake 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Mix lime juice, olive oil, and garlic. Drizzle over baked shrimp.
6. Serve with lime wedges.
3. Air fryer shrimp po’ boy
Crisp shrimp in the air fryer makes for easy po’ boy sandwiches without deep frying. Load it up with all your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb peeled, deveined shrimp
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup flour
– 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/3 cup milk
– 4 sub rolls, split
– Shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, garlic aioli (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, and Creole seasoning. In second bowl, beat together egg and milk.
2. Dip shrimp in egg mixture, then dredge through cornmeal mixture to coat.
3. Spray air fryer basket with oil. Add shrimp in single layer. Cook at 400°F for 4-5 minutes.
4. Fill sub rolls with lettuce, tomato, pickles, shrimp, and aioli.
4.Sheet pan harissa shrimp boil
This low-fuss boil packs big cajun flavor from the spicy harissa seasoning blend. Serve with crusty bread for soaking up juices.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs extra large shrimp, peeled, deveined
– 4 small red potatoes, cut in 1-inch chunks
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced 1/2-inch
– 3 ears corn, cut in thirds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 tbsp harissa powder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Fresh dill, parsley, lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. On large sheet pan, toss all ingredients except herbs and lemons with oil. Spread in single layer.
3. Roast 20-25 minutes until shrimp is pink and potatoes are tender.
4. Top with fresh dill, parsley, and lemon wedges.
5. Air fryer bang bang shrimp
Get the flavor of your favorite takeout without the hassle! Air fried shrimp is tossed in a spicy mayo-sriracha sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb peeled, deveined shrimp
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– Sauce:
– 1/4 cup mayo
– 2 tbsp sriracha
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Scallions, sesame seeds, lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pat shrimp dry and toss with cornstarch. Shake off excess.
2. Spray air fryer with oil and cook shrimp at 390°F for 5 minutes.
3. Mix all sauce ingredients. Toss shrimp in sauce.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions, sesame seeds and lime.
Can shrimp be frozen and thawed for New Year’s Eve?
Many people like to prepare dishes ahead of time for New Year’s celebrations to minimize work on the big night. Good news – you can absolutely freeze and thaw shrimp for New Year’s meals and appetizers! Here are some tips:
– Purchase raw, shell on shrimp when they are freshest and most affordable. Rinse, drain, and pat dry.
– Sort shrimp by size if using different sizes for recipes. Freeze in a single layer on tray before transferring to bags.
– Seal shrimp in freezer bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible. Label with date and quantity.
– Freeze shrimp for up to 3 months at 0°F or below. Shrimp may suffer texture and flavor loss if frozen longer.
– Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator. Do not thaw at room temperature or in warm water.
– Cook thawed shrimp within 24 hours. Do not refreeze thawed shrimp.
– Use thawed shrimp in any recipe calling for fresh or thawed shrimp. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing.
Freezing shrimp allows you to prep components like shrimp platters or dips ahead of the New Year’s rush. Just follow safe freezing and thawing guidelines for best quality.
Pairing wines and cocktails with shrimp
Shrimp offer versatility when it comes to pairing wines and cocktails. Consider these tips for New Year’s beverage pairings:
Light whites like pinot grigio, vinho verde, and unoaked chardonnay work well with poached, sauteed, or fried shrimp. The high acidity refreshes the palate.
Sparkling wines like prosecco, champagne, and cava highlight the sweetness of shrimp dishes. Bubbles cut through richness.
Rosé matches well with grilled shrimp or shrimp incorporated into salads. Dry styles stand up to spice and herbs.
Pilsner or wheat beers offer enough bitterness to balance creamy shrimp dishes but not overpower. They also cleanse palates between bites.
For cocktails, shrimp pairs nicely with citrus flavors found in mojitos, margaritas, and caipirinhas. Bloody marys accentuate the briny seafood notes.
Tart whites, bubbly, and light cocktails will let the shrimp shine through without competing flavors.
New Year’s Eve shrimp appetizers
Here are [5] easy shrimp appetizers perfect for New Year’s Eve parties:
Shrimp cocktail
Chilled cooked shrimp served with lemons and cocktail sauce. Elegant and easy.
Bacon wrapped shrimp
Marinated shrimp wrapped in bacon and browned until crispy.
Shrimp pots
Mini “pots” made from phyllo dough shells filled with shrimp and cheese.
Sesame shrimp toast
Diced shrimp and veggies on toasted baguette slices, broiled with sesame seeds.
Bang bang shrimp bites
Crispy fried shrimp tossed in spicy mayo-sriracha sauce.
Having a variety of easy shrimp appetizers lets guests graze and fills time before serving the main meal.
Shrimp main dishes for New Year’s
Make shrimp the star of the show by centering your New Year’s main course around one of these popular recipes:
Shrimp scampi: Saute shrimp in butter, garlic, wine and parsley over pasta or rice. A fast classic.
Shrimp etouffee: Stew shrimp in a thick, smoky sauce with veggies and Cajun spice served over rice.
Sheet pan shrimp boil: Roast shrimp with sausage, potatoes and corn for a fuss-free shrimp boil.
Shrimp fajitas: Saute shrimp with bell peppers and onions, served sizzling hot with tortillas, guac and sour cream.
Shrimp fried rice: Toss shrimp with fried rice, eggs, peas, carrots and soy sauce. An easy crowd pleaser.
Shrimp pizza: Top pizza dough with creamy alfredo sauce, shrimp and mozzarella for an elegant pizza night.
You really can’t go wrong building your New Year’s menu around juicy, flavorful shrimp. Play with global spices and sauces to give shrimp mains an extra flair.
Conclusion
Shrimp can be a smart, festive choice for New Year’s Eve menus. They offer versatility in terms of preparation methods, pair nicely with celebratory wines and cocktails, and provide crowd-pleasing flavor. Just be mindful of potential food allergies and budget constraints when planning shrimp dishes. Follow proper handling guidelines for peak quality and safety. With so many options for appetizers and mains, shrimp lend themselves perfectly to ringing in the new year in delicious style.
