Our Christmas Eve is traditionally laid back and more casual. My dad cooks up a 7 Fishes feast while my mom and I prepare for Christmas Day. The menu on Christmas Eve follows Italian tradition and we have dishes that are mostly centered around fish.  My dad makes shrimp, lobster, and clams all different ways. This year I decided to throw a new entry into the ring, a Shrimp Scampi dip. Typically shrimp scampi is garlicky goodness served over linguine.  This is a favorite in its own right. However, we already have a pasta dish, “Zuppa Di Clams” being served. This dip is creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and addicting! Make sure to serve it with something that can withstand all the cheese and scoop up that shrimp. I like using New York Style Pita Chips because they pair well with different dips and toppings. They are always crunchy and flavorful and with most New York Style gourmet snacks containing 50% less fat than the leading potato chip, they’re also guilt free. The Pita Chips come in a variety of flavors including Ancient Grains & Flaxseed, Parmesan, Garlic & Herb, and your classic Sea Salt. 

This Shrimp Scampi dip with New York Style Pita Chips is a great appetizer to put out while we are all hanging out in the kitchen. The only problem is it’s gone much too soon! 

For more information about New York Style and special offers, check out: http://www.newyorkstyle.com.

Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Dip

Cheesy shrimp scampi dip is the perfect party or holiday appetizer. Lots of garlicky cheese and chunks of shrimp make up this delicious dish.

ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp peeled, deveined, roughly chopped

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 c white wine

• 3 Tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 c sour cream

• 3 Tbsp mayonaise

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional

• 1/2 c mozzarella cheese, grated & divided

• 1/4 c parmesan cheese, grated

• fresh parsley, chopped

instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly oil.

2. Meanwhile melt the butter in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute for one minute, then add the shrimp. Stir the shrimp occasionally, until they get pink.

3. Once the shrimp are pink stir in the wine and lemon juice, bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Remove from heat and add in the sour cream, cream cheese, mayo, and some chopped parsley (about 1/2 tbsp). Once combined add in half the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

5. Spread the mixture into the baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Put into the oven for 12 minutes, until top is browned and bubbly!