Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines cooked shrimp with a zesty tomato-based sauce, fresh vegetables, and a hint of heat. Also known as Cóctel de Camarones, it’s perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, especially in warm weather. Serve it at parties or enjoy it for a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
For the Cocktail:
1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (small to medium size)
1 cup tomato juice or Clamato (adjust to taste)
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula)
1 medium tomato, diced
1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
½ small red onion, finely diced
1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
Tortilla chips or saltine crackers
Lime wedges
Additional hot sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp aren’t cooked, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cocktail Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato juice (or Clamato), ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce. Adjust the tomato juice for your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Shrimp
Add the cooked shrimp, diced tomato, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro to the bowl. Gently toss to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the Avocado
Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado to avoid mashing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve in individual bowls or cocktail glasses. Garnish with lime wedges and extra hot sauce if desired. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.
Cooking Notes
Shrimp Size: Small to medium shrimp work best, or cut larger shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
Tomato Juice: Use Clamato for extra flavor or plain tomato juice for a more traditional version.
Avocado: Always add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Variations
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