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Classic Shrimp Cocktail

A plate of classic shrimp cocktail, featuring plump, cooked shrimp seasoned with pepper, served with a side of cocktail sauce.
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A timeless appetizer featuring perfectly poached shrimp served with a zesty, homemade cocktail sauce. This elegant dish is ideal for holiday parties and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Add the halved lemon and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  3. Drain the shrimp and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for at least 10 minutes.
  4. While the shrimp are chilling, prepare the cocktail sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  5. Drain the chilled shrimp thoroughly.
  6. Serve the shrimp chilled with the cocktail sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • For an extra flavorful poaching liquid, you can add a bay leaf, a few peppercorns, and a slice of onion to the water before boiling.
  • The cocktail sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • This recipe is a great make-ahead option for entertaining.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-appetizer/