As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to think creatively about how to present your food, drinks, and décor. One simple yet beautiful way to do this is by crafting shrimp tree. This centerpiece not only adds a touch of whimsy to your appetizer table but also brings a vintage charm.
What You’ll Need:
- Foam Cone: Start with a foam cone, which you can easily find online or at craft stores. This will be the base of your shrimp tree.
- Kale: Fresh kale makes the perfect leafy backdrop for your tree. Its vibrant green color will bring life to your display.
- Shrimp: Cooked shrimp will serve as the ornaments for your tree. Choose medium or large shrimp for the best visual impact.
- Cocktail Skewers: These will be used to attach the kale and hold the shrimp in place.
- St. Elmo Cocktail Sauce: World-Famous dipping sauce to accompany your shrimp.
- Festive Bow: A medium-sized, bow to top off your tree and add a finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Foam Cone: Begin by placing your foam cone on a sturdy plate or platter. This will make it easy to transport to your serving table.
- Create the Leaves: Tear medium-sized pieces of kale into manageable portions. The kale will serve as the leaves of your shrimp tree.
- Assemble the Tree: Using cocktail skewers, spear the pieces of kale into the foam cone, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Overlap the kale pieces slightly to create a full, leafy look.
- Add the Shrimp Ornaments: Once the kale is securely in place, it’s time to add your shrimp. Leave enough space on the skewers to hang the shrimp so they hang down, mimicking ornaments on a tree.
- Top with a Festive Bow: To complete your shrimp tree, place a bow at the very top of the foam cone. This ties the whole display together beautifully.
- Serve with Sauce: Finally, place a bowl of St. Elmo Cocktail Sauce at the base of your shrimp tree.