Shrimp Cocktail My Way

This refreshing Shrimp Cocktail recipe is a vibrant blend of shrimp, fresh vegetables, and zesty citrus flavors, perfect for any occasion. Infused with a tangy tomato-based sauce and a hint of heat from jalapeños and Tabasco, it’s a versatile dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

Best served chilled, this crowd-pleaser pairs wonderfully with Saltine crackers or tortilla chips for a light yet flavorful appetizer or snack.

Enjoy a taste of the sea with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

People will love this Shrimp Cocktail recipe because it’s a perfect balance of freshness, flavor, and simplicity.

The juicy shrimp pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and the tangy, mildly spicy sauce, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Its versatility makes it ideal for any gathering, whether as an appetizer or a light meal, and it’s easy to customize to suit different tastes.

Plus, the make-ahead nature of the recipe allows the flavors to deepen, making it even more irresistible!

Key Ingredients:

Shrimp: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the cocktail.

Fresh Vegetables: Red onion, cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado add crunch, color, and creaminess.

Cilantro and Jalapeños: For a fresh, herbaceous kick and a hint of heat.

Clamato Juice and Ketchup: Create a tangy, savory sauce with just the right amount of sweetness.

Lemons and Tabasco: Add brightness and spice to enhance the flavors.

Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

50 medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, cooked)

1/2 red onion, diced

2 avocados, diced

2 lemons (juice only)

1 large cucumber, diced

2 tomatoes, diced

A handful of cilantro, chopped

1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

1 quart Clamato or tomato juice

Tabasco sauce (to taste)

Ketchup (2–3 squeezes or to taste)

Salt (to taste)

Saltine crackers (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

Cut about 3/4 of the shrimp into small pieces, leaving the rest whole for presentation.

Prep the Vegetables:

Dice the red onion, avocados, cucumber, tomatoes, and jalapeños. Chop the cilantro finely.

Combine Shrimp and Veggies:

In a large bowl, mix the chopped shrimp, whole shrimp, onion, avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro.

Mix the Sauce:

In a separate bowl, combine the Clamato juice, juice of the lemons, a couple of squeezes of ketchup, Tabasco sauce (start small and adjust to taste), and salt. Stir well to combine.

Combine and Chill:

Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and veggie mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

Serve:

Serve chilled with Saltine crackers or tortilla chips on the side.

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Tips:

Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less jalapeño and Tabasco.

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.

This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time!

Enjoy your fresh and zesty shrimp cocktail!

Notes:

Shrimp Preparation: Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time, or cook raw shrimp in lightly salted boiling water until pink and tender.

Adjust Spice Levels: Start with a small amount of Tabasco and jalapeños, then adjust to your heat preference.

Chilling Time: Allow the shrimp cocktail to chill for at least 2 hours for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Customization: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or swap Clamato juice for tomato juice if desired.

Serving Options: Serve with Saltine crackers, tortilla chips, or even on tostadas for a heartier option.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes before using.

Make sure they are peeled, deveined, and cooked for convenience.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the heat, add more finely chopped jalapeños, a few extra dashes of Tabasco sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Taste and adjust gradually to avoid over-spicing.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s best to prepare it at least 2 hours in advance to let the flavors meld.

You can make it up to a day ahead; just add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.

What can I serve with shrimp cocktail besides Saltine crackers?

This dish pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crusty bread, tostadas, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Can I substitute Clamato juice if I don’t have it?

Yes, you can substitute Clamato juice with regular tomato juice or a mix of tomato juice and a splash of seafood stock or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Do I need to cook the shrimp myself?

No, you can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time.

If you prefer to cook them yourself, boil raw shrimp in salted water with a splash of lemon juice for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Toss the diced avocado in a little lemon or lime juice before adding it to the dish.

The acidity helps slow down oxidation and keeps the avocado looking fresh.

Can I use other types of seafood?

Yes, you can customize this recipe with other seafood like crab meat, scallops, or even chunks of white fish for a mixed seafood cocktail.

Just ensure everything is cooked and chilled before combining.

How do I balance the flavors in the sauce?

Taste the sauce as you mix it. If it’s too tangy, add a touch more ketchup for sweetness.

If it’s too mild, increase the Tabasco or jalapeños.

Adjust salt as needed for balance.

What’s the best way to chill the shrimp cocktail?

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

To keep it extra cold for serving, you can set the bowl over a tray of ice.