Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe: Easy Seafood Appetizer
40 minutes
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About Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe: Easy Seafood Appetizer
Inspired by countless restaurant visits where my husband's love for shrimp cocktail always stole the show (even though I'm allergic!), I've perfected this simple yet elegant recipe at home. Using fresh ingredients and a homemade cocktail sauce, it captures the essence of that irresistible appetizer.This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, ideal for both intimate dinners and bustling parties. The vibrant flavors of perfectly cooked shrimp paired with our zesty cocktail sauce are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and add a touch of sophistication to any occasion.Get ready to impress your guests with this restaurant-quality shrimp cocktail, made effortlessly in your own kitchen!
Recipe Time & More
Prep10 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
For the Cocktail Sauce
- 1 cup Tomato Ketchup
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
- 4 tsp Horseradish prepared
- 1/2 cup Sauce adjust to taste, hot
- 1/4 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 5 cup Water for poaching shrimp
Instructions
Prepare the Poaching Liquid
- In a large saucepan, combine 5 cups of water, diced carrot, diced onion, halved garlic clove, lemon wedge, chopped parsley, and fresh thyme. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
Poach the Shrimp
- Add the raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the simmering liquid. Turn off the heat immediately. Let the shrimp sit in the hot water for 2 minutes.
Chill and Peel
- Remove the shrimp from the poaching liquid and drain well. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the shrimp to chill thoroughly.
Make the Cocktail Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, lemon juice, horseradish, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve
- Serve the chilled shrimp with the chilled cocktail sauce. Garnish with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Cocktail
- For best results, use high-quality, fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slightly sweet smell.
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. The poaching method ensures perfectly tender shrimp.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the cocktail sauce to your liking. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- For a more elegant presentation, arrange the shrimp on a bed of ice before serving. You can also add a sprig of fresh parsley for garnish.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 20kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gSodium: 1140mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
3 Comments
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This is exactly what I was looking for!
I’m eager to make this recipe!
What a delightful recipe! Thanks for sharing.