Appetizers & Starters > Seafood Starters > Cold Seafood Dishes > Shrimp Cocktail

Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Cocktail Sauce

Enjoy a timeless classic with our Shrimp Cocktail recipe, featuring succulent shrimp and a tangy, homemade cocktail sauce. This elegant appetizer is perfect for any occasion, offering a refreshing and flavorful start to your meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 whole Lemon
  • as needed Ice
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Prepared Horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon Hot Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Cooking the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become rubbery.

Icing the Shrimp

Immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will also help to firm them up.

Chilling the Shrimp

Once the shrimp are cool, drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the shrimp on a platter or in individual serving glasses, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill thoroughly.

Making the Cocktail Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of horseradish and hot sauce to your preference.

Serving the Shrimp Cocktail

Serve the chilled shrimp with the cocktail sauce. You can garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for an elegant presentation.

← Classic Oysters on the Half Shell with Mignonette Sauce Creamy Dreamy Lobster Dip →

FAQ

  • Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

    Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time. Just make sure to thaw them properly and chill them before serving.
  • How long can I store leftover shrimp cocktail?

    Leftover shrimp cocktail can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to keep it well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
  • Can I make the cocktail sauce ahead of time?

    Yes, the cocktail sauce can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld together.