Grilled Shrimp Sauce
Description
This recipe creates a sophisticated, creamy emulsion sauce that elevates simple grilled shrimp into a restaurant-quality meal. The base combines the herbal brightness of tarragon vinegar with the sharp tang of Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice. Shallots and garlic provide an aromatic foundation, while a slow emulsification of vegetable and olive oils creates a rich, velvety texture without dairy. The optional touch of hot sauce adds a subtle kick that balances the acidity. It serves as both a marinade for the shrimp and a finishing sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this sauce brings a bright, Mediterranean flair to your seafood dishes.Ingredients
Directions
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Place tarragon vinegar, minced shallots, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce into a blender.
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Blend on low speed until solids are finely chopped and ingredients are well combined.
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In a separate container, combine 1/2 cup vegetable oil and 1/2 cup virgin olive oil.
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With the blender running on slow speed, slowly drizzle the oil mixture in a thin, steady stream to create a creamy emulsion.
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If the blender struggles or air pockets form, stop the machine, remove the cap to release pressure, and scrape down the sides before continuing.
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Peel and devein 1 pound of shrimp, then place them in a ceramic bowl.
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Pour a portion of the prepared sauce over the shrimp to marinate, tossing to coat evenly.
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Add 1 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1/4 cup dried parsley) to the marinade.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
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Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
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Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked skewers.
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Grill the shrimp over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
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Serve immediately, drizzling any remaining sauce over the grilled shrimp.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 90.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.5g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.3g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 187.4mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 21.2g8%
- Dietary Fiber 7.6g31%
- Sugars 2.4g
- Protein 4.8g10%
* 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: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The emulsion may separate; stir or blend briefly before using.
Substitutions: If you do not have tarragon vinegar, use white wine vinegar with a pinch of dried tarragon. Canola or sunflower oil can replace vegetable oil.
Tip: For a richer flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the emulsion. Be careful not to over-grill the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Safety: Ensure shrimp are cooked until opaque and firm to avoid foodborne illness. Keep raw shrimp separate from cooked items to prevent cross-contamination.