Roasted Cantaloupe and Shrimp Bisque Recipe

Roasted Cantaloupe and Shrimp Bisque is a unique and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of roasted cantaloupe with the savory depth of shrimp. This bisque is creamy, comforting, and perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
  • 1 large cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably raw)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro or chives)

Instructions

Roast the Cantaloupe:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Cantaloupe: Toss the cubed cantaloupe with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cantaloupe is caramelized and tender. Let it cool slightly.

Make the Soup:

4. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
5. Blend Soup Base: Add the roasted cantaloupe and broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Purée: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully purée the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
7. Add Shrimp: Return the puréed soup to the pot over low heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and lime juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through but do not boil.

Serve:

9. Garnish: Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

Tips:

• Customize: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to enhance the flavor, such as cayenne pepper for heat or thyme for an earthy note.
• Texture Variation: For added texture, reserve some sautéed shrimp to place on top of the bisque when serving.

This Roasted Cantaloupe and Shrimp Bisque offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect starter for any meal! Enjoy!