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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe | Quick & Easy Appetizer

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe | Quick & Easy Appetizer

Description

Hello, food lovers! If you’re on the lookout for a flavorful and fresh appetizer, you’ve come to the right place. This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is an irresistible treat with tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and a zesty pico de gallo sauce. Whether you’re planning a party or just looking to elevate your snack game, this recipe is a must-try! Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3 Roma or plum-style tomatoes, diced
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • ⅓ cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeded for less heat)
  • 2 fresh limes (juice)
  • Salt to taste
  • 12 ounces of your favorite cocktail sauce (or homemade)
  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (cooked or raw)
  • 2 ripe avocados, chopped
  • Tortilla chips or saltine crackers for serving

Optional substitutions:

  • For a spicier version, leave the seeds in the jalapeño.
  • For dietary restrictions, you can substitute cocktail sauce with a low-sugar version or make your own with reduced sodium ketchup and hot sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pico de Gallo

In a large bowl, mix diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the top and season with a pinch of salt. Stir well and refrigerate for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

  • If using cooked shrimp: Skip to Step 3.
  • If using raw shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes, until they turn white with pink highlights. Immediately drain the shrimp and cool them in ice water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Cut the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and reserve some for garnish. Add the rest to the pico de gallo mixture along with the cocktail sauce. Stir to combine, and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Avocado

Before serving, chop the avocados and squeeze the remaining lime juice over them to prevent browning. Gently mix the avocado into the shrimp cocktail mixture or layer it on top for individual servings.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the cocktail in small bowls or glasses, garnished with reserved shrimp, avocado, and cilantro. Pair with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.

Equipment

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice enhances the bright, zesty flavor of the dish.
  • Adjust the heat: Tailor the spiciness by adding or reducing the jalapeño or even substituting it with serrano pepper for a hotter kick.
  • Make it ahead: You can prep the pico de gallo and cocktail sauce mixture a few hours ahead of time, but add the shrimp and avocado right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/mexican-shrimp-cocktail-recipe-quick-easy-appetizer/