Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, also called a Zesty Shrimp Cocktail, is a refreshing dish that blends bold, tangy flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients. While this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, it still delivers an impressive balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a party or enjoying it as a light meal on a warm day, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Furthermore, its colorful presentation adds a vibrant touch to any dining table, making it perfect for casual and formal occasions alike.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for extra spice)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato juice (or Clamato for additional flavor)
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Valentina or Cholula)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
First, gather and prepare all your ingredients. Start by combining the cooked shrimp, finely diced red onion, cucumber, tomato, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro in a large mixing bowl. As you mix, make sure to be gentle so the vegetables maintain their texture and shape.
Step 2: Make the Cocktail Sauce
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. While mixing the sauce for this Zesty Shrimp Cocktail, make sure all ingredients blend well to enhance the flavor profile.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Then, stir gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this could break down the texture of the shrimp and vegetables.
Step 4: Chill the Dish
After combining, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. During this time, the ingredients will soak up the tangy, spicy sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If possible, let it chill for up to an hour for an even better taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, spoon the shrimp cocktail into individual bowls or cups. Top each serving with creamy avocado slices for added richness. Moreover, serve it alongside tortilla chips or crackers to provide a satisfying crunch and enhance the overall experience.
Variations
- Seafood Medley: For an upgraded version, include cooked scallops or crab meat to add variety.
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute the shrimp with diced hearts of palm or artichoke hearts for a plant-based twist.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, double the hot sauce or use habanero peppers instead of jalapeños.
- Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple to balance the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Note
- Shrimp: For the best results, use high-quality shrimp that are properly cleaned and deveined. If you’re cooking them yourself, boil the shrimp in salted water until they turn pink, then cool before using.
- Tomato Juice: While Clamato juice enhances the flavor with a subtle brininess, plain tomato juice works just as well if you prefer a simpler taste.
- Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step, as it is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor. Allowing the ingredients to sit and meld together makes a significant difference.
Serving Suggestions
For a visually appealing presentation, consider serving the cocktail in clear glasses or colorful bowls. Additionally, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or lime wedges for a polished look. Pair the dish with a cold Mexican beer or a tangy margarita to complement the bold flavors. Alternatively, use the shrimp cocktail as a topping for crispy tostadas or as a filling for lettuce wraps, offering creative ways to enjoy this classic recipe.
Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor. Bottled lime juice can taste flat and artificial.
- To control the spice level, start with a small amount of jalapeño and hot sauce, adding more gradually to suit your preference.
- Add avocado slices at the last minute to prevent them from browning.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for added body and flavor.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time:
45 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: ~450mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use raw shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use raw shrimp if you prefer. However, you will need to cook them first. Simply boil the shrimp in salted water until they turn pink, and then cool them before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables and shrimp may degrade when thawed.
Q: Can this dish be made in advance?
A: Definitely! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce mixture a day ahead of time. Just make sure to add the avocado slices right before serving to keep them fresh.
Q: What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
A: A combination of soy sauce and a small splash of vinegar can work as an excellent substitute, providing similar umami and tangy flavors.
Q: Is Clamato essential for this recipe?
A: Not at all! While Clamato offers a distinctive flavor, regular tomato juice works just fine for a simpler, cleaner taste.
Conclusion
In summary, Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones) is a vibrant, flavorful dish that embodies the essence of coastal Mexican cuisine. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it is also versatile enough for various occasions. By combining fresh shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a tangy cocktail sauce, you’ll create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today, and bring the bold, refreshing flavors of Mexico to your table. ¡Buen provecho!
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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones)
- Total Time: 45
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional for extra spice)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato juice (or Clamato for additional flavor)
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Valentina or Cholula)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
First, gather and prepare all your ingredients. Start by combining the cooked shrimp, finely diced red onion, cucumber, tomato, jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro in a large mixing bowl. As you mix, make sure to be gentle so the vegetables maintain their texture and shape.
Step 2: Make the Cocktail Sauce
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. While mixing the sauce for this Zesty Shrimp Cocktail, make sure all ingredients blend well to enhance the flavor profile.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Then, stir gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this could break down the texture of the shrimp and vegetables.
Step 4: Chill the Dish
After combining, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. During this time, the ingredients will soak up the tangy, spicy sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If possible, let it chill for up to an hour for an even better taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, spoon the shrimp cocktail into individual bowls or cups. Top each serving with creamy avocado slices for added richness. Moreover, serve it alongside tortilla chips or crackers to provide a satisfying crunch and enhance the overall experience.
Notes
Cooking Note
- Shrimp: For the best results, use high-quality shrimp that are properly cleaned and deveined. If you’re cooking them yourself, boil the shrimp in salted water until they turn pink, then cool before using.
- Tomato Juice: While Clamato juice enhances the flavor with a subtle brininess, plain tomato juice works just as well if you prefer a simpler taste.
- Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step, as it is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor. Allowing the ingredients to sit and meld together makes a significant difference.
- Prep Time: 15
Nutrition
- Calories: 200
- Sodium: 450mg
- Protein: 18g