If you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer, look no further than a classic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. This dish is packed with fresh ingredients, zesty flavors, and tender shrimp that will leave your taste buds dancing. The best part? You can whip it up in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of cooked shrimp: Medium-sized, peeled, and deveined.
- 1 cup of tomato juice: Adds a rich, tangy base for the cocktail.
- 1/2 cup of ketchup: Provides sweetness and thickness.
- 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice: Gives the cocktail a bright, zesty flavor.
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro: For a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 1/4 cup of diced red onion: Adds a bit of bite and crunch.
- 1/2 cup of diced cucumber: For a refreshing, crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup of diced avocado: Creamy and smooth, balancing the acidity.
- 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, adding vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup of diced jalapeños: For a spicy kick. Adjust to taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
- Hot sauce (optional): For extra heat.
- Tortilla chips or saltine crackers: For serving.
Method:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- If your shrimp isn’t pre-cooked, bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the shrimp, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and pat dry.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato juice, ketchup, and fresh lime juice. Stir well to create a smooth, flavorful base.
- Add the Fresh Ingredients:
- Add the chopped cilantro, red onion, cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, and jalapeños to the bowl. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Combine with Shrimp:
- Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the cocktail sauce and other ingredients.
- Season and Taste:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like it spicy, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Chill (Optional):
- For best results, let the shrimp cocktail chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can serve it immediately.
- Serve:
- Spoon the shrimp cocktail into individual serving glasses or bowls. Garnish with a sprig of cilantro and a slice of lime, if desired.
- Serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side for scooping up every delicious bite.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh shrimp: Freshly cooked shrimp will give the best flavor and texture, but pre-cooked shrimp can be a convenient alternative.
- Adjust the heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of jalapeños or leave them out entirely.
- Make it ahead: This cocktail can be made a few hours ahead of time and kept in the fridge. The flavors will deepen as it chills.
Conclusion:
This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a delightful, refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just want a quick and healthy meal, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. Dive into deliciousness in just 20 minutes, and enjoy the vibrant taste of Mexico in every bite!