Zesty Shrimp Cocktail

Zesty Shrimp Cocktail is a classic seafood appetizer featuring perfectly poached shrimp served with a bold and tangy homemade cocktail sauce. This elegant dish is quick to prepare and perfect for parties, special occasions, or as a refreshing appetizer for any seafood lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Fresh and Flavorful – Perfectly poached shrimp paired with a zesty homemade sauce.
• Elegant Presentation – Ideal for entertaining and special occasions.
• Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in advance for easy serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shrimp:

• Large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on)
• Water
• Lemon (sliced)
• Garlic cloves (smashed)
• Salt
• Black peppercorns
• Old Bay seasoning

For the Cocktail Sauce:

• Ketchup
• Horseradish
• Fresh lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. In a large pot, bring the water, lemon slices, garlic, salt, peppercorns, and Old Bay seasoning to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then add the shrimp to the pot.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to cool and stop the cooking process.
5. Once cooled, drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Make the Cocktail Sauce:

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until well combined.

Serve:

7. Arrange the chilled shrimp around a cocktail glass or platter filled with the sauce.
8. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add extra horseradish or hot sauce for a bolder heat.
• Grilled Shrimp Cocktail – Grill the shrimp instead of boiling for a smoky flavor.
• Tropical Twist – Serve with mango or pineapple salsa instead of cocktail sauce.
• Mexican-Style – Add a splash of lime juice and a pinch of chili powder to the sauce.
• Herb Infusion – Add fresh dill or parsley to the poaching liquid for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep cooked shrimp and cocktail sauce refrigerated in separate airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Shrimp can be frozen after poaching for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Poach the shrimp and prepare the sauce a few hours in advance for easy serving.

FAQs

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp should turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them as soon as they are done.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them in cold water before cooking.

What’s the best way to chill shrimp quickly?

An ice bath (a bowl of ice water) stops the cooking process and cools shrimp rapidly.

Can I make this cocktail sauce milder?

Yes, reduce the horseradish and hot sauce for a milder flavor.

What other dipping sauces pair well with shrimp cocktail?

Try garlic aioli, remoulade, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Can I serve this warm instead of chilled?

Yes, warm shrimp pairs well with melted garlic butter instead of cocktail sauce.

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Do not overcook—shrimp only need about 2-3 minutes in hot water before they are ready.

What type of shrimp is best for shrimp cocktail?

Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) work best for presentation and texture.

Can I substitute Old Bay seasoning?

Yes, use a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne as a substitute.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but poaching fresh shrimp results in better flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Zesty Shrimp Cocktail is a simple yet elegant appetizer that never goes out of style. With its perfectly poached shrimp and bold homemade cocktail sauce, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether served at a party, holiday feast, or casual dinner, this refreshing seafood classic is a guaranteed hit!