Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp Cocktail is a classic appetizer that features chilled shrimp served with a tangy and flavorful cocktail sauce. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, elegance, and refreshing taste, making it a popular choice for parties, gatherings, and special occasions.
The key to a perfect Shrimp Cocktail lies in using fresh shrimp, a well-balanced cocktail sauce, and the right presentation. Follow this recipe to create a delicious and impressive Shrimp Cocktail that will delight your guests or elevate your appetizer spread.
Ingredients:
(Serves 4-6)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (about 16-20 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 lemon, halved
- Ice water (for chilling)
- For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves
- Lemon wedges
How to Make Shrimp Cocktail:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
Fill a large pot with water and add the salt and halved lemon. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain their tender texture.
Immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and chill the shrimp. Once cooled, drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more horseradish for extra heat, or adjust the acidity with more lemon juice.
- Serve the Shrimp Cocktail:
Arrange the chilled shrimp on a serving platter or individual cocktail glasses.
Place a small bowl of the cocktail sauce in the center of the platter or glasses for dipping.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves and lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.
Chef’s Note:
For an extra touch of freshness, you can add finely chopped celery or cucumber to the cocktail sauce.
To enhance the flavor of the shrimp, you can add aromatics such as bay leaves, peppercorns, or garlic cloves to the boiling water before cooking the shrimp.
Serve Shrimp Cocktail chilled immediately after preparing for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition Value: (Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Sodium: 1100mg
Enjoy this classic Shrimp Cocktail as an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Its combination of tender shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce makes it a timeless favorite!
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