If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, zesty, and studded with tender shrimp and crunchy pecans, this delightful dip transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible party centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or an elegant gathering, this dip log brings a perfect balance of texture and taste that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a key role to create that perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, and crunchy. Here’s what you’ll gather to make this delicious dish come alive on your platter.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The rich, smooth base that makes every bite velvety and luxurious.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and an extra layer of creaminess to bind everything together effortlessly.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brings a fresh, bright zing that cuts through the richness.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle depth with its savory umami notes.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a gentle warmth and aromatic complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a little kick without being overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle peppery bite to enhance the overall flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and highlights all the other tastes beautifully.
- Small cooked shrimp (1 cup, finely chopped): The star ingredient, tender and packed with seafood goodness.
- Green onion (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Sprinkles a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant green color.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Adds a herbaceous, refreshing lift.
- Pecans (1/2 cup, finely chopped): For a crunchy, nutty coating that adds great texture contrast.
- Crackers or baguette slices: To serve, offering the perfect vehicle for scooping this delicious dip.
How to Make Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base
Start by beating the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. This base will ensure your shrimp dip log is irresistibly luscious and easy to shape.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Seasonings
Next, stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. These ingredients create a vibrant mix of tangy, spicy, and savory notes that elevate the dip beyond ordinary.
Step 3: Mix in the Shrimp and Herbs
Now, fold in the finely chopped cooked shrimp, green onion, and parsley. This combination brings fresh flavors and a delightful seafood essence that makes this dip truly special.
Step 4: Shape the Log
To form the signature dip log, transfer the mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and carefully shape it into a smooth, even log. The plastic wrap helps you roll and smooth the sides perfectly.
Step 5: Chill It Well
Refrigerate the log for at least one hour. This chilling step firms up the dip, making it easier to coat and slice when it’s time to serve.
Step 6: Coat with Crunchy Pecans
Once chilled, unwrap the dip log and gently roll it in the finely chopped pecans to create a crispy, nutty crust. This texture contrast adds irresistible appeal every time.
Step 7: Serve with Crackers or Baguette
Place the finished shrimp dip log on a beautiful serving platter alongside your crackers or baguette slices. Your guests will adore the combination of creamy dip and crunchy bites.
How to Serve Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few lemon zest curls can brighten the presentation and add a burst of fresh aroma. Garnishes elevate the dip log’s visual appeal and hint at its vibrant flavors.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crisp vegetables like celery sticks, crunchy carrot batons, or sweet bell pepper strips, offering a lighter option alongside your crackers. It’s perfect for a full spread of snacks and finger foods.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Shrimp Dip Log on a wooden board surrounded by an artful arrangement of olives, pickles, and colorful fresh herbs. You could also slice the log into bite-size rounds secured with small skewers for easy party munching.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover shrimp dip log tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days, maintaining its flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dip log ahead of a busy day, you can freeze it wrapped securely in plastic and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling in pecans and serving to preserve its fresh taste and creamy texture.
Reheating
This dip is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Let it sit out for a few minutes before serving if it’s been refrigerated to take the chill off and allow flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans for the coating?
Absolutely! Toasted almonds or walnuts make excellent substitutes if you want to change up the flavor or accommodate what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dip without mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients, but you can try substituting with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Can I use fresh shrimp for this recipe?
Cooked shrimp is essential for safety and texture. If you have fresh shrimp, cook and chill it thoroughly before chopping and adding to the dip.
How long before serving should I make the Shrimp Dip Log Recipe?
It’s ideal to make it at least an hour ahead to allow chilling and setting, but it can also be made a day ahead for convenience without losing its delicious taste.
Is this dip suitable for guests with seafood allergies?
Since shrimp is the main ingredient, this recipe is not suitable for those with shellfish allergies. Consider offering an alternative dip to accommodate all guests.
Final Thoughts
The Shrimp Dip Log Recipe truly is a crowd-pleaser that brings class, flavor, and fun to any gathering. Its effortless assembly, combined with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings, makes it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your entertaining arsenal. So go ahead and give it a try—your guests will thank you for the amazing taste and beautiful presentation!
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Shrimp Dip Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Shrimp Dip Log is a creamy, flavorful seafood appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasoned shrimp, it’s rolled into a log and coated with pecans for a delightful crunchy texture. Served chilled with crackers or baguette slices, it’s an easy no-cook recipe that can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup small cooked shrimp, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
For Serving
- Crackers or baguette slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Add Shrimp and Herbs: Stir in the finely chopped cooked shrimp, green onion, and fresh parsley until evenly incorporated throughout the creamy base.
- Shape the Dip Log: Using plastic wrap, shape the mixture into a log by smoothing the sides as you roll it tightly, creating a uniform cylinder shape.
- Chill the Log: Refrigerate the shaped dip log for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up and develop flavors.
- Coat with Pecans: Once chilled, roll the log in the finely chopped pecans to coat the exterior evenly, adding a crunchy texture to the dip.
- Serve: Place the pecan-coated shrimp dip log on a serving platter and serve with crackers or baguette slices as a delicious appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute the pecans with toasted almonds or walnuts for a different flavor and texture.
- To make shaping the log easier, refrigerate the mixture for 20 minutes before rolling.
- This dip log can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
