Home on the Range and Coconut Shrimp

First let me just say that it snowed in Calgary and it was freezing. I only packed sandals. It's amazing how quickly one forgets.

We had an amazing time in Calgary this past weekend. We got to see Cory's family and celebrate Kate's Graduation from the Nursing program. Just as important, I was able to have some much needed reconnecting time with my best friends while celebrating the wedding of Christina and Kirk. It definitely did not seem like it had been a year since we'd seen everyone. I've realized how important it is to spend time with the people that really know you. Past and present. I find my love for the girls, who were my world growing up, never changes.

I had a wonderful time staying with the Wetsch Family. I had been waiting forever to see little Charlie again and let me tell you, she did not disappoint. What a cutie. Such a nice little girl and almost too adorable to look at. My hosts were gracious as usual and I had a very comfortable stay. Complete with fresh flowers in the bathroom :) I treasure the times I get to spend with Kelsey and her family and always look forward to my next visits.

Here's Charlie riding the Turtle we brought for her :)

Here is a super duper easy recipe for baked Coconut Shrimp. I made it up yesterday and it totally rocked my world.

Baked Coconut Shrimp in 10 minutes!

30 or so raw shrimp or prawns (peeled and devained. Tails on or off.)
1/2 cup mango salsa (or chili sauce, or 2 egg whites)
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut, shredded (toasted if you want...)
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (Japanese bread crumbs, available in the Asian section.)
1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
cooking spray

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray parchment with cooking spray.

Get three plates.
Plate one - flour.
Plate two - salsa (or equivalent)
Plate three - panko, coconut, salt, pepper, paprika

Dredge the shrimp in flour, dip them in salsa, then coat in coconut mixture. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops with cooking spray.

Bake for about 6 minutes. Then, turn on the broiler and watch them closely until they brown, 2 minutes or so. Serve with plum sauce or chili sauce for dipping. Enjoy!