Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Simple but a classic favorite, this recipe makes for a delicious addition to any meal for any occasion

Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer that has been enjoyed for decades, with its popularity spanning across the world. The dish typically consists of cooked shrimp that are chilled and served with a flavorful cocktail sauce.  This classic appetizer is often seen on special occasions such as weddings, holiday gatherings, and dinner parties. The simplicity of the dish, combined with the shrimp’s flavorful and juicy texture and the tartness of cocktail sauce, have made it a classic favorite. Whether served on a bed with ice or in an elegant cocktail glass, A shrimp cocktail is a perfect way to kick off any meal and leave a lasting impression.

Tracing back to the early 20th century in the United States, the dish was first served in seafood restaurants in New York and San Francisco and quickly gained popularity as an appetizer. The original recipe for shrimp cocktail consisted of poached shrimp that was served cold with a simple cocktail sauce made of ketchup, horseradish, and lemon juice.

The popularity of shrimp cocktails spread throughout the country, and by the 1960s, it had become a staple on the menus of many restaurants and bars. In the 1980s, the dish experienced a resurgence in popularity, with many upscale restaurants putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Variations of the dish included the addition of avocado, tomato, and cilantro, among other ingredients.

Today, the shrimp cocktail remains a popular dish at many restaurants and is often served at special occasions and events. While the original recipe has remained relatively unchanged, chefs continue to experiment with new flavors and ingredients to create unique twists on the classic dish.

So then, let’s get started with the recipe!

What we need

Ingredients:

1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup prepared horseradish

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Salt and pepper to taste

Ice cubes

Instructions

• Prepare the shrimp

Rinse the cooked shrimp in cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure to remove any tails or shells that are still attached. Set aside.

• Make the cocktail sauce

Take a small bowl and mix in ketchup, prepared horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.

• Chill the cocktail sauce

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cocktail sauce until you’re ready to serve.

• Arrange the shrimp

Take a large serving bowl and place the cooked shrimp on the bottom of the bowl. You can also use individual cocktail glasses for a more elegant presentation.

• Add ice

Fill the bowl or glasses with ice cubes to keep the shrimp cold.

• Serve the cocktail sauce:

Take the cocktail sauce out of the refrigerator and serve it on the side, either in a separate bowl or in individual ramekins. You can also place a lemon wedge on the side to add some extra freshness.

• And then Enjoy!

Dip the shrimp into the cocktail sauce and take a moment to enjoy the flavors of your classic shrimp cocktail.

Delicious? Told you so!