Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail is a timeless appetizer that never goes out of style. With its tangy, spicy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it's a surefire hit for any gathering. Whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, this dish fits right in.
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Ingredients for Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp: The star of the show, large shrimp provide a satisfying bite and are easy to handle. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture.
Water: Used to boil the shrimp, infusing them with the flavor of the added ingredients.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp as they cook.
Lemon: Sliced and added to the boiling water, it imparts a fresh, citrusy aroma to the shrimp.
Ketchup: Forms the base of the cocktail sauce, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.
Horseradish: Adds a spicy kick to the sauce, making it lively and exciting.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce with a fresh, zesty note.
Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a depth of flavor, with its unique, savory tang.
Hot Sauce: Gives the sauce an extra spicy edge, adjustable to your heat preference.
Classic Shrimp Cocktail Tips & Tricks
- If you like your cocktail sauce spicier, feel free to add more horseradish or hot sauce.
- For the best texture, don’t skip the ice bath — it keeps the shrimp firm and juicy.
- Make the cocktail sauce a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Ideas for Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Pair this classic shrimp cocktail with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to keep things refreshing. For a full spread, serve alongside a cheese platter or fresh veggies for a well-rounded appetizer selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
- Yes, but fresh-cooked shrimp will have better flavor and texture.
- How long does the cocktail sauce last?
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.
Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe Walkthrough
Start by filling a large pot with 4 cups of water. Toss in 1 tablespoon of salt and your sliced lemon. This creates a flavorful bath for your shrimp. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Once boiling, carefully add your 1 pound of shrimp. You'll want to cook them for just 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye out for them turning pink and opaque — that’s your cue that they’re perfectly done.
As soon as the shrimp are cooked, transfer them immediately to an ice bath. This stops the cooking process and keeps them tender. It's a little trick that makes a big difference.
While the shrimp cool, mix up your cocktail sauce. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of horseradish, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce. Stir until well blended.
Once the shrimp are chilled, serve them with your cocktail sauce and a slice of lemon on the side for an extra pop of freshness.
Why This Classic Shrimp Cocktail Works
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- The cocktail sauce has just the right kick to complement the shrimp.
- Makes you feel like a pro chef with minimal effort.
- Great for those who love a classic, elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cups water
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp horseradish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp hot sauce
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water, add 1 tbsp of salt and the sliced lemon.
- 2. Bring the water to a boil, then add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- 3. Remove the shrimp and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- 4. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to make the cocktail sauce.
- 5. Serve the chilled shrimp with the cocktail sauce and a slice of lemon on the side.