She Strengthens

Savor the Flavors of Spain with This Quick and Easy Appetizer

When it comes to hosting a cocktail party, you want dishes that are both delicious and effortless to prepare. That’s where this shortcut version of traditional Spanish romesco sauce comes in – a flavorful combination of tomatoes, red peppers, bread, and almonds that pairs perfectly with a variety of accompaniments.

A Match Made in Heaven: Romesco and Shrimp

For this recipe, we’ve opted to serve the romesco sauce with succulent oven-roasted shrimp, but feel free to get creative and pair it with vegetable crudités, grilled chicken breasts, or pasta. The possibilities are endless!

Game Plan: Prep Ahead and Relax

One of the best things about this recipe is that the romesco sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance and refrigerated in a covered container. Simply roast the shrimp just before serving, and you’re ready to go!

Romesco Sauce Recipe

Yields: 8 to 10 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 medium tomato
• 2 medium garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 slices crusty bread (about 2 ounces)
• 1/4 cup whole raw almonds
• 1 (7.25-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained (about 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Shrimp Recipe

• 1 1/2 pounds large uncooked shrimp (about 48), peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Roast the Aromatics: Heat the oven to 450°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Place the tomato, garlic, bread, and almonds on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until the bread and almonds are lightly toasted, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Blend the Sauce: Transfer the roasted ingredients to a food processor or blender and pulse to coarsely chop. Add the roasted red peppers, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and paprika, and pulse again until well combined and relatively smooth.
3. Prepare the Shrimp: Combine the shrimp and oil in a large bowl, season with salt and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. Place the shrimp on the cooled baking sheet in an even layer and roast until opaque and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the roasted shrimp with the romesco sauce and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors!

Beverage Pairing Suggestion

For a truly authentic experience, try pairing this dish with a white wine from the Penedès region of Spain, such as Can Ràfols dels Caus “Gran Caus” Blanco. The wine’s light acidity and notes of mineral, melon, and citrus complement the rich flavors of the romesco sauce and shrimp perfectly.