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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a zesty and refreshing seafood dish combining tender shrimp with a tangy tomato base, fresh vegetables, and a kick of spice. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect as a light meal or appetizer that is healthy, vibrant, and easily customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • Fresh or frozen peeled shrimp, cooked and chilled (about 1 pound)

Liquids

  • 2 cups tomato juice or Clamato
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 12 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
  • Optional: 1 avocado, diced (add just before serving)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start with fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined. Cook them quickly in boiling water just until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes, then drain and let cool completely. This ensures tender, juicy shrimp ready to soak up the flavors.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: While the shrimp cool, finely dice the onion, cucumber, and jalapeño (remove seeds if you prefer mild). Chop the cilantro and, if using, dice the avocado just before mixing to prevent browning.
  3. Mix the Cocktail Sauce: In a large bowl, combine tomato juice or Clamato with fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add your choice of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeño for heat, adjusting according to taste.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled shrimp and chopped vegetables into the sauce. Gently fold everything together until each piece is well coated and the colors meld beautifully.
  5. Chill and Serve: Let the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to meld the flavors – though it’s okay to serve immediately if you’re in a hurry. Serve in glass cups or bowls for the best presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Chill the cocktail before serving to enhance flavor melding.
  • Adjust spiciness gradually by adding jalapeño or hot sauce in small amounts.
  • Serve with crunchy sides like tortilla chips or cucumber slices for great texture contrast.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican shrimp cocktail, seafood appetizer, quick shrimp recipe, healthy shrimp dish, tangy shrimp cocktail