Don't Skip the Shrimp Dip This Thanksgiving

We moved to Dedham in 1992. It was a crazy time. I was still in high school, my parents had just bought a new house and my sister was getting married in just three short weeks of us moving in. We had to redo the whole house: paint, wallpaper, floors, etc. One thing always stuck in my mind: the kindness of a new neighbor.

The doorbell rang during one of those hectic days and it was our new neighbor, Loretta, shrimp dip and crackers in hand. I remember tasting it thinking “This is such a good dip. It must have taken a long time to make!” We asked for the recipe - and I was so wrong. It is such a simple recipe. Three ingredients, plus the crackers and no cooking. How can you go wrong?

When your guests start to arrive for Thanksgiving dinner, or you arrive as the guest for Thanksgiving dinner, this simple recipe is a true winner to serve and share. It’s a fantastic appetizer and won’t overstuff you; let’s leave the overstuffing for the turkey.

Loretta's Shrimp Dip and Crackers:

1 8 oz. brick of cream cheese

1/4 lb. cooked shrimp, chopped into small pieces (about 12 medium shrimp)

1 jar of cocktail sauce (I used Legal Seafood’s, which you can find in the grocery store)

Assorted crackers

Parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Combine first three ingredients using an electric mixer.  Chill. Serve with cracker assortment.