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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing appetizer featuring plump, juicy shrimp combined with a tangy tomato base, crisp vegetables, and fresh citrus flavors. This easy-to-make dish brings authentic Mexican coastal tastes to your table, perfect for parties, casual dinners, or a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

Liquid Base

  • 2 cups tomato juice or Clamato
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Hot sauce, to taste

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and curl, about 2-3 minutes. Immediately drain and transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking and maintain tenderness.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the shrimp cool, finely dice the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeño. Chop fresh cilantro and, if using, dice the avocado. Having these ingredients ready beforehand helps ensure even flavor distribution.
  3. Mix the Cocktail Sauce: In a large bowl, combine tomato juice or Clamato with freshly squeezed lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to create a zesty but balanced sauce.
  4. Combine Shrimp and Vegetables: Add the cooked shrimp and chopped vegetables to the sauce. Gently mix everything together. Chill the cocktail in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail cold, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Optionally, accompany with tortilla chips or saltine crackers.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp as they can become rubbery quickly.
  • Chilling enhances flavors and refreshes the dish.
  • Adjust lime juice and tomato juice carefully to balance acidity.
  • Customize spiciness by adding peppers and hot sauce according to taste.
  • Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to fresh vegetables and texture.
  • Best served cold; avoid reheating to preserve freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican shrimp cocktail, shrimp appetizer, seafood cocktail, Mexican appetizer, fresh shrimp recipe, gluten free appetizer, easy shrimp recipe

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/mexican-shrimp-cocktail/