Shrimp Cocktail is a classic and elegant appetizer, beloved for its simplicity and sophisticated flavor profile. This dish features succulent, chilled shrimp served alongside a zesty and tangy cocktail sauce, typically made with ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Often presented in a stylish glass or along the rim of a platter, Shrimp Cocktail is a perennial favorite at dinner parties, weddings, and celebratory events, offering a refreshing and light option that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAmerican, Appetizers & StartersDifficultyBeginnerCook the Shrimp:
Fill a large pot with water, add the lemon halves, peppercorns, and bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep them firm.
Once cooled, drain and refrigerate the shrimp until ready to serve.
Prepare the Cocktail Sauce:
In a bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve:
Arrange the chilled shrimp on a platter with lemon slices and a bowl of cocktail sauce in the center.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Ingredients
Directions
Cook the Shrimp:
Fill a large pot with water, add the lemon halves, peppercorns, and bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep them firm.
Once cooled, drain and refrigerate the shrimp until ready to serve.
Prepare the Cocktail Sauce:
In a bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve:
Arrange the chilled shrimp on a platter with lemon slices and a bowl of cocktail sauce in the center.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Notes
Perfect Beverage Pairing:
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The effervescence and acidity of a crisp Champagne or sparkling wine cut through the richness of the shrimp and complement the spiciness of the cocktail sauce.
- Alternative: A light and zesty Sauvignon Blanc or a non-alcoholic sparkling apple cider can also pair well, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the dish’s flavors.
