Description
This Refreshing Shrimp Cocktail is a classic American appetizer featuring perfectly cooked, chilled shrimp served with a tangy, slightly spicy cocktail sauce. The shrimp are boiled with aromatics for flavor and immediately cooled to retain their tender texture. This dish is simple, elegant, and perfect for entertaining or a light starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Boiling Liquid
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 lemon (halved, juice squeezed into water before boiling)
- 1 bay leaf
Cocktail Sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the boiling water: Fill a large pot with water, then add 1 tablespoon salt, the halved lemon (squeeze its juice into the water before adding the halves), and 1 bay leaf. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on to the boiling water. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
- Cool the shrimp: Drain the hot water and immediately transfer the shrimp into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Chill the shrimp in the ice bath for at least 10 minutes until completely cooled.
- Make the cocktail sauce: While the shrimp chill, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional) in a small bowl. Mix well and taste; adjust the heat or acidity to your preference.
- Serve: Drain the chilled shrimp and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange shrimp on a serving platter and serve with the cocktail sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Use wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook shrimp to prevent rubbery texture; cooking for 2-3 minutes is sufficient.
- Shrimp can be cooked and chilled up to 1 day in advance for convenience.
- Serve the shrimp cocktail over crushed ice to keep it extra cold and visually appealing.
