Shrimp Cocktail Tarts
Description
These elegant Shrimp Cocktail Tarts are the perfect appetizer for parties or special occasions. The flaky, golden puff pastry shells provide a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, chilled shrimp. Topped with a vibrant, tangy cocktail sauce and a fresh bed of leaf lettuce, each bite is a burst of classic seafood flavor. They are surprisingly easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Serve these bite-sized delights as a sophisticated starter that impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 450&# 194;°F (230ðC).
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Allow the pie crust package to stand at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes until easy to unfold.
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Unfold each crust and remove the top plastic sheet.
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Press out any fold lines on the dough with your fingers.
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Invert the dough and remove the remaining plastic sheet.
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Using a 3-inch round cutter or glass, cut out ten 3-inch circles from each crust.
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Fit each dough circle over the back of a miniature muffin cup.
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Pinch 4 or 5 equally spaced pleats around the sides of the muffin cup to hold the dough in place.
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Prick the bottom of each tart shell generously with a fork.
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Bake for 9 to 13 minutes, or until the shells are light golden brown.
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Remove from oven and let cool completely in the muffin cups before removing.
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Place a small amount of chopped lettuce in the bottom of each cooled tart shell.
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Spoon a few pieces of drained shrimp over the lettuce layer.
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Top with a small dollop of cocktail sauce.
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Garnish with a parsley leaf or lemon wedge if desired and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 20
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 118.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6.2g10%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 87.5mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 14.8g5%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 1.5g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
**Storage:** Best served fresh. If preparing ahead, bake the shells a day in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble with shrimp and sauce just before serving to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
**Variations:** For a richer flavor, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or herbed butter inside the tart shell before adding the lettuce.
**Tip:** Ensure shrimp are thoroughly drained and patted dry with paper towels before assembling to maintain the crispness of the pastry.