Shrimp & Pesto Romaine Boats

Here is a simple do-it-yourself appetizer or buffet item for Spring parties like graduations, engagements, weddings and bon voyage parties.

Shrimp & Pesto Romaine Boats can even be made from fresh and pure store bought ingredients.

Shrimp & Pesto Romaine Boats
Serves 8

Ingredients
1 pound shrimp
1 8 oz container pesto (any variety)
2 heads romaine, large out leaves removed

Method:

1. If you are using raw shrimp, steam and peel. Chill in refrigerator at least one hour. If you purchased cooked shrimp, begin at next step.
2. Place shrimp on a pretty serving dish and be sure shrimp stays well chilled.  Set the serving dish over a larger platter filled with ice and some water.
3. Tear individual leaves from romaine lettuce heads and place on a platter next to our surrounding a dish of pesto
4. Let guests serve themselves by scooping some pesto onto a leaf then  garnishing with shrimp.

Variations on the theme:

• Tuna or chicken salad with crunchy toppings like chopped celery and pickles, red bell pepper
• Replace pesto with hummus and top with slices of grilled chicken
• Replace pesto with homemade Russian dressing and top with crabmeat