Shrimp Cocktail has been a party star for decades, bringing elegance and flavor to any table. With its perfectly cooked shrimp, zesty cocktail sauce, and a touch of lemon, it’s a dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a festive gathering, or simply craving a refreshing appetizer, this Shrimp Cocktail recipe will be your go-to option.
In this article, we’ll cover everything—from ingredients and step-by-step preparation to tips for serving like a pro.
Table of Contents
Why Shrimp Cocktail is a Timeless Favorite
Shrimp Cocktail has been a beloved appetizer for generations. The combination of tender shrimp with a tangy sauce creates the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s light, low in carbs, and quick to make, which makes it ideal for last-minute get-togethers or a fancy weekend treat.
Another reason to love it? Shrimp Cocktail is incredibly versatile. You can keep it simple with just shrimp and sauce, or jazz it up with fresh herbs, spices, or even avocado slices for a modern twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Shrimp Cocktail, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 cups water
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional for spice lovers)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
H2: Preparing the Shrimp
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add lemon halves, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf.
- Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Quickly transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and keep them tender.
H2: Making the Cocktail Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and hot sauce.
- Stir until well blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
H2: Serving Your Shrimp Cocktail
- Arrange shrimp on a platter or individual serving glasses with a side of cocktail sauce.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
- Chill before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Cocktail
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—just 2-3 minutes is enough.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in both shrimp and sauce.
- For a healthier version, use low-sodium ketchup or make your own sauce from scratch.
- If you want to impress guests, serve in martini glasses for a restaurant-style look.
H2: Calories & Nutrition Table
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (4 servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Cocktail recipe is a classic appetizer that delivers every single time. It’s easy, quick, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for holidays, parties, or even a simple weeknight starter. Try it once, and it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!
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