shrimp cocktail recipe
Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer featuring succulent shrimp served chilled with a tangy cocktail sauce. Perfect for parties or festive gatherings, this dish is simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 bowl (for ice water)
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 whisk or fork
- 1 serving platter
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon old bay seasoning
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons horseradish Adjust to taste if you prefer a spicier sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- as needed pieces lemon wedges (for garnish)
- as needed sprigs fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the old bay seasoning.
- Once boiling, add the shrimp to the pot. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- While the shrimp is cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a bowl with ice and cold water.
- When the shrimp are cooked, transfer them immediately to the ice bath using a colander to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for about 5 minutes.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk together until smooth to make the cocktail sauce.
- Drain the chilled shrimp and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve with the cocktail sauce on the side and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can include a few slices of lemon in the boiling water.
Adjust the amount of horseradish to taste if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Shrimp cocktail can be prepared a few hours in advance; just store the cooked shrimp in the refrigerator until ready to serve.