Florida Shrimp Pie
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful seafood dish that captures the essence of coastal flavors. With a buttery crust filled with succulent shrimp and a blend of spices, it's a must-try for seafood lovers.
This Florida Shrimp Pie is not just a dish; it's a celebration of the flavors that make coastal cuisine so appealing. With its rich seafood filling and flaky crust, it's perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory shrimp flavor in every bite
- Creamy filling that perfectly complements the flaky crust
- A unique twist on traditional pies, ideal for seafood enthusiasts
A Coastal Classic
Florida Shrimp Pie is not just any seafood dish; it’s a celebration of the flavors that define the coastal regions of Florida. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy filling, and a buttery crust creates a unique dish that pays homage to the state’s rich maritime heritage. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that is both impressive and satisfying. The shrimp is the star of the show, bringing a fresh, oceanic taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy and cheesy filling. Each bite is a reminder of sunny days by the beach.
Perfect for Any Season
While shrimp pie is ideal for summer barbecues and beach parties, it is also a comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it a wonderful choice for cozy family dinners or special occasions like holidays and birthdays. It's an excellent way to introduce seafood to those who may not typically enjoy it, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Additionally, this dish can be easily customized to suit your taste. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to the filling for a personal touch. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to create new flavor profiles, ensuring that every pie you make is uniquely yours.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Florida Shrimp Pie, consider pairing it with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp, refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors of the pie beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. You can also serve it with a chilled white wine or a light beer for a delightful pairing.
For those looking to elevate the presentation, garnish each slice with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s coastal theme. Your guests will be impressed by both the taste and the visual appeal of this delicious shrimp pie.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the preparation.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the Pie
Roll out the chilled pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the shrimp filling into the crust and spread evenly.
Bake the Pie
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Florida Shrimp Pie!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your Florida Shrimp Pie is easy. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To reheat leftovers, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the pie’s flaky crust and creamy filling, ensuring that your meal tastes just as fresh as when it was first made.
Variations to Try
While the classic Florida Shrimp Pie is a favorite, there are plenty of variations you can try to suit your palate. Consider adding crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist. Alternatively, you could substitute the shrimp with other seafood like scallops or even a mix of different types of fish for added texture and flavor.
For a vegetarian option, swap the seafood for a medley of seasonal vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, and zucchini. This not only provides a colorful presentation but also makes for a hearty dish that everyone can enjoy. The key is to maintain the creamy filling while incorporating your chosen ingredients.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust in advance and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to use it.
→ What can I serve with Florida Shrimp Pie?
This pie pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Florida Shrimp Pie
Florida Shrimp Pie is a delightful seafood dish that captures the essence of coastal flavors. With a buttery crust filled with succulent shrimp and a blend of spices, it's a must-try for seafood lovers.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a skillet over medium heat, add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Roll out the chilled pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the shrimp filling into the crust and spread evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g