Looking for a delectable appetizer that’s sure to impress? This shrimp cocktail recipe is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s an ideal starter for any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy party. Follow these simple steps to create a shrimp cocktail that’s bursting with taste and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp with shell
- Shrimp broth
- 1 1/4 cups ketchup
- Dash of Valentina hot sauce
- Dash of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 lime
- 1 small onion
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 Serrano pepper (remove seeds for less heat)
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cucumber (remove seeds)
- Salt to taste
- 2 avocados
Directions:
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Start by removing the shells from the shrimp. Boil the shrimp in lightly salted water until they are cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Place the shrimp shells back into the same water and let them boil to create a flavorful shrimp broth. Once done, remove and discard the shells.
Make the Cocktail Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp broth, 1 1/4 cups of ketchup, 1 can of tomato sauce, a dash of Valentina hot sauce, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and the juice of one lime. Mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding more of any ingredient until it is not too thick or watery.
Prepare the Vegetables and Shrimp:
- Dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, Serrano pepper, and cilantro. Make sure the pieces are small enough to get a bit of everything in each bite.
- Cut the avocados into chunks and set them aside.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the diced vegetables and shrimp to the cocktail base. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, lime, or hot sauce to suit your preference.
- Gently fold in the avocado chunks last to avoid them getting mashed.
Chill and Enjoy:
- For the best flavor, let the shrimp cocktail chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve in individual glasses or a large serving bowl, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Cocktail:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your shrimp cocktail.
- Balance the Heat: If you prefer a milder cocktail, remove the seeds from the Serrano pepper or use less of it. For a spicier kick, add more Valentina hot sauce.
- Customize: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Some people enjoy adding a bit of garlic or substituting jalapeno for Serrano pepper.
Nutritional Benefits:
This shrimp cocktail is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and low in calories. The fresh vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while avocado provides healthy fats. It’s a wholesome appetizer that complements any meal.
Conclusion:
This shrimp cocktail recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its combination of tangy, spicy, and fresh flavors makes it a standout appetizer that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and tasty snack, this recipe is your go-to. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the compliments that will surely come your way!