10 No-Bake Appetizers to Elevate Your Holiday Table

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Festive Shrimp Verrines

Christmas shrimp verrines are delightful, layered appetizers that resemble festive ornaments. They feature creamy guacamole, pink-hued fresh cheese, succulent shrimp, and luxurious lumpfish roe, topped with a delicate chive cream. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your holiday table. For a more colorful presentation, add a small layer of diced cherry tomatoes or cucumber between the guacamole and fresh cheese layers.

Ingredients (for 6 servings):

• 12 large shrimp, cooked and peeled
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 4 oz fresh cheese (such as ricotta or cream cheese), softened
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp chopped chives, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tbsp lumpfish roe (or substitute with salmon roe)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mash the avocados in a bowl with lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix the fresh cheese with the tomato paste until it forms a smooth, pink mixture. Season with a pinch of salt if needed.
3. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the chopped chives and a small pinch of salt.
4. Divide the guacamole evenly among the bottom of 6 small glasses or verrines.
5. Add a layer of the pink fresh cheese on top of the guacamole.
6. Spoon a dollop of the chive cream on top of the pink cheese layer.
7. Place two shrimp standing upright in each verrine.
8. Add a small scoop of lumpfish roe to the top of the chive cream.
9. Garnish with extra chopped chives for a festive touch.
10. Refrigerate the verrines for at least 30 min. to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold as an elegant starter or appetizer.