SHRIMP AND ASPARAGUS APPETIZER

SHRIMP AND ASPARAGUS APPETIZER Ingredients: 2 pounds (21-25) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning 1 tablespoon kosher salt 2 bay leaves 2 pounds asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 5 inch lengths Pinch of kosher salt 1 teaspoon olive oil Bring 2 quarts water to a boil.  Add the shrimp, seasoning, salt and bay leaves.  Cook just until shrimp are pink, about 3 minutes, drain.  Chill. Bring a pot of water, about 1 quart, to a boil.  Add salt and oil.  Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes just until bright green and tender.  Drain.  Place in ice bath to chill down and stop the cooking process.  Drain again. Arrange the shrimp and asparagus around a platter and place a bowl with bottled aioli (from Trader Joe’s) in the center of the platter for folks to dip the shrimp and the asparagus spears.  Serves 12.