Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe)
The Cóctel de Camarones is a refreshing seafood classic that blends the brightness of citrus with the creaminess of a rich sauce and the delicate sweetness of shrimp.
It carries the essence of coastal cuisine — vibrant, light, and full of layered flavors. Each bite offers a balance of tangy lemon, savory tomato, and a subtle kick of spice, wrapped around tender shrimp that melt in your mouth.
Traditionally served chilled in glass bowls and paired with crisp lettuce or crackers, this dish is more than just an appetizer — it’s a celebration of freshness, elegance, and the simple joy of gathering around the table.
Why People Will Love Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe):
Fresh and vibrant flavors – The brightness of lemon juice, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the subtle heat from hot sauce create a perfect balance that wakes up the palate.
Elegant yet simple – It feels luxurious and restaurant-worthy, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home with just a few fresh ingredients.
A refreshing starter – Served chilled, this cocktail offers a light and crisp beginning to any meal, especially in warm weather.
Customizable heat and tang – The spice level and citrus notes can be adjusted to personal taste, making it versatile and appealing to different preferences.
Beautiful presentation – Garnished with parsley, olive oil, and served in glass bowls, it transforms into a visually stunning dish that delights the eyes as much as the taste buds.
Key Ingredient:
Shrimp – The star of the dish, tender and juicy, offering natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with citrus and creamy sauces.
Lemon juice – Adds brightness and tang, balancing the richness while keeping the flavors clean and refreshing.
Onion & parsley – Provide sharpness and freshness, giving the cocktail a crisp bite and herbaceous lift.
Mayonnaise & tomato sauce – Together they create a silky, savory base with just the right creaminess and depth of flavor.
Hot sauce (optional) – Infuses a gentle heat that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the delicate shrimp.
Expert Tips:
Control the cooking time of shrimp carefully – Overcooking will make shrimp rubbery; the moment they turn pink and opaque (3–5 minutes), remove them immediately and chill to lock in tenderness.
Marinate for layered flavor – Soaking the shrimp in lemon juice before cooking doesn’t just add acidity; it also begins to “cure” the flesh, enhancing the citrus notes throughout the dish.
Balance the sauce – Taste and adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to tomato sauce; too much mayo can dull freshness, while extra tomato brings tang and vibrancy. A spoonful of ketchup can add sweetness if needed.
Build complexity with spice – A touch of hot sauce or even a pinch of smoked paprika can elevate the cocktail, adding depth without overpowering the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Serve chilled but not icy – Let the cocktail rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before serving, but avoid making it too cold; room-chilled shrimp release more aroma and flavor when eaten.
Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe)
Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds of large shrimp, peeled and cleaned
½ cup lemon juice divided
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley a little more for garnish
½ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup tomato sauce
½ teaspoon hot sauce optional
Olive oil to decorate
Instructions:
Place shrimp in a medium bowl; add ⅓ cup lemon juice. Put in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Drain the shrimp and discard the lemon juice.
In a medium saucepan over medium high heat, place the water and salt. When it starts to boil add the shrimp and turn off the heat.
Let the shrimp in the water just until they are cooked, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the shrimp to a plastic container and refrigerate.
In a small bowl, combine onion, remaining lemon juice, ketchup, mayonnaise, pepper, hot sauce, and parsley.
Add the shrimp and serve in glass bowls over the lettuce. Serve with crackers and garnish with olive oil and parsley.
Important Notes When Making Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe):
Quality of shrimp matters most – Always choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. If using frozen, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. Avoid thawing in warm water, as it can make shrimp mushy.
Citrus freshness is key – Use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled; the brightness and natural oils from fresh citrus give the cocktail its clean, refreshing character.
Mind the salt balance – Between boiling the shrimp, seasoning the sauce, and garnishing, it’s easy to oversalt. Taste at each stage rather than salting heavily upfront.
Texture harmony – The crunch of onions and freshness of parsley should contrast with the tenderness of shrimp. Chop onions finely to avoid overpowering bites.
Serve immediately after assembling – While shrimp can be cooked and chilled ahead, mix with the sauce only shortly before serving to keep the flavors vibrant and prevent watery separation.
How To Enjoy Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe) After Cooking:
Preparing for Serving
Chill the cocktail glasses: Place glass cups or goblets in the refrigerator or freezer for 10–15 minutes before serving. A cold glass enhances freshness and presentation.
Layer for beauty: Line the bottom of each glass with a crisp lettuce leaf to create a natural “bed” for the shrimp cocktail. This adds crunch and elevates the visual appeal.
Garnish smartly: Sprinkle extra parsley, drizzle a few drops of olive oil, and place a thin lemon wedge on the rim for a restaurant-style look.
Enjoying the Shrimp Cocktail
Start with a spoonful of balance: Scoop shrimp with a little sauce, onion, and parsley in every bite for the perfect flavor contrast.
Pair with crisp crackers: Saltine crackers or tostadas provide a salty crunch that complements the creamy, tangy cocktail.
Savor the freshness: Notice how the citrus-marinated shrimp brings brightness, the mayo-tomato sauce offers creaminess, and the herbs add a refreshing finish.
Best Pairings
Drinks: Pair with chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), a light Mexican beer, or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing balance.
Sides: Serve alongside guacamole, chips, or a fresh cucumber salad to complete a summer-style spread.
Timing Tips
Serve soon after assembly: The longer the shrimp sit in the sauce, the more watery it becomes. For peak flavor and texture, enjoy within 30 minutes of mixing.
If making ahead: Keep shrimp and sauce separate in the fridge, then combine right before serving.
This approach transforms a simple shrimp cocktail into a refreshing, elegant experience that feels both casual and gourmet.
Nutrition Information:
Per serving, about 1 cup of Cóctel de Camarones
Calories: 210 kcal | Total Fat: 10.5 g | Saturated Fat: 2.1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4.8 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.3 g | Cholesterol: 155 mg | Sodium: 730 mg (depending on added salt & sauce) | Total Carbohydrates: 8.4 g | Dietary Fiber: 1.2 g | Sugars: 3.5 g | Protein: 22 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this shrimp cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and chill the shrimp a day in advance, and even prepare the sauce separately. However, for the best texture and freshness, combine the shrimp with the sauce just before serving to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy.
What kind of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 count per pound) are ideal because they hold their shape and deliver a meaty bite. However, medium shrimp can also be used if that’s what you have on hand—just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Can I substitute mayonnaise in the sauce?
Absolutely. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for mayonnaise. You’ll still get creaminess but with fewer calories and added protein.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The hot sauce provides mild heat, but you can easily scale it. For more spice, add finely chopped jalapeños, serrano chiles, or an extra dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, omit the hot sauce entirely and stick with just lemon and tomato sauce.
What can I serve alongside shrimp cocktail to make it a complete meal?
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp lettuce, avocado slices, or crunchy tostadas. You can also serve it with saltine crackers or crusty bread to balance the tangy, creamy sauce and provide some texture contrast.
How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery when cooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly. As soon as they turn pink and opaque (3–5 minutes in hot water), they’re done. Leaving them longer in the heat will toughen the texture, so always remove them immediately and cool them.
Should I marinate the shrimp in lemon juice before boiling?
A short lemon soak enhances freshness and adds a light “ceviche-style” tang. However, do not leave shrimp in lemon juice too long, or the acid will begin to “cook” them and change the texture. Thirty minutes is enough.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp?
Yes, but it’s best to still soak them briefly in lemon juice to boost flavor. Skip the boiling step and simply chill them. The key is not to over-handle or over-marinate them, as pre-cooked shrimp can dry out quickly.
How do I make the sauce smooth and balanced?
Mix the mayonnaise and tomato sauce thoroughly first before adding lemon juice, onion, parsley, and hot sauce. This ensures a creamy, well-emulsified base that won’t separate. Taste and adjust the acidity, sweetness, or spice level as you go.
How can I keep the shrimp cocktail cold and refreshing when serving?
Chill the shrimp well before mixing with the sauce, and keep the serving glasses or bowls cold in the refrigerator. If serving outdoors or at a party, nestle the serving dish in a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain freshness.