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Zesty Shrimp Cocktail


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  • Author: Mari
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Zesty Shrimp Cocktail is a classic seafood appetizer perfect for Mardi Gras parties, elegant gatherings, or any special occasion! Tender poached shrimp are served chilled with a bold, tangy homemade cocktail sauce made with horseradish, lemon juice, and a hint of spice. Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this easy party appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!


This Zesty Shrimp Cocktail is a classic seafood appetizer perfect for Mardi Gras parties, elegant gatherings, or any special occasion! Tender poached shrimp are served chilled with a bold, tangy homemade cocktail sauce made with horseradish, lemon juice, and a hint of spice. Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this easy party appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled & deveined, tails on)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
  • 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
For the Cocktail Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp horseradish
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:
  1. In a large pot, bring water, lemon slices, garlic, salt, peppercorns, and Old Bay to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then add shrimp.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Chill the Shrimp:
  1. Remove shrimp and transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop cooking.
  2. Drain and pat dry before serving.
Make the Cocktail Sauce:
  1. In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until smooth.
Serve:
  1. Arrange shrimp around a cocktail glass or serving platter filled with sauce.
  2. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve chilled.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add more horseradish or an extra dash of hot sauce.
  • Use jumbo shrimp for a more impressive presentation.
  • Shrimp can be cooked and chilled up to a day in advance for easy entertaining.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Poaching
  • Cuisine: Seafood, Mardi Gras