Seafood sales rise during the Christmas season, and it’s easy to see why. It isn’t a cheap indulgence, especially as the holidays approach, yet households across Canada and the United States go that extra mile to entertain guests. Crabs, crayfish, mussels, and clams see busy markets as fishers reap the rewards of December’s bounty.
Among the stars on the Christmas table, shrimp stand tall. They are a staple that appears in every form—baked, grilled, salted, or paired with a creamy dip. They are a reliable starting point that sits proudly alongside Iberian charcuterie and artisanal cheeses, making them a perennial favourite for gatherings.
Even though shrimp are a delicacy in their own right, there is always room for a fresh twist. Presenting them in an original, thoughtful way can leave guests delighted and impressed. The secret, however, lies in quality; the best results come from shrimp that are fresh and properly handled from the moment they are selected—this simple principle elevates the final presentation and taste.
A tray of raw shrimp — Shutterstock [image credit]
For this festive edition, the approach chosen is deliberately simple: a handful of ingredients, precise execution, and a few well-chosen details that together guarantee a successful dish without feeling overwhelming.
Contents
- 12 fresh shrimp
- 200 milliliters of fresh cream
- a file
- a cucumber
- two sprigs of thyme
- A packet of wasa bread
detailing
- The first step is to prepare the shrimp for the grill. The process begins with peeling while leaving the heads intact, a technique that helps retain moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Next, a mandoline is used to slice the cucumber as evenly as possible. Once sliced, it should be seasoned with a touch of salt and left in a strainer to drain excess moisture.
- Now the sauce comes together: whisk fresh cream with the juice of half a lemon and a few thyme leaves. For an extra layer of brightness, add a pinch of salt and the zest of half a lemon.
- Assemble the towers: replace a slice of wasa bread, add a cucumber slice, and spoon on a little sauce. Build two layers to create a compact, visually appealing base.
- Finish by grilling the shrimp and placing them atop the assembled tower, so they crown the bite with color, aroma, and a touch of charred flavor.