Description
This Refreshing Shrimp Cocktail is a classic American appetizer featuring tender, perfectly poached large shrimp served chilled with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. The shrimp are gently boiled with aromatic lemon, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf then quickly chilled to preserve their succulent texture. The tangy cocktail sauce, made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce, adds a spicy kick that complements the shrimp beautifully. Garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, this dish is an elegant yet easy make-ahead option perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Cocktail Sauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Poaching Liquid: Fill a large pot with water and add the halved lemon, salt, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This aromatic liquid will infuse the shrimp with subtle flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on to the simmering water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked and tender.
- Cool the Shrimp: Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp into an ice bath to halt the cooking process and preserve their firm texture. After cooling, drain the shrimp and chill them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a small bowl, combine ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if using. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Refrigerate the sauce until serving to let flavors meld.
- Assemble and Garnish: Arrange the chilled shrimp elegantly on a platter surrounding a bowl filled with the cocktail sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh presentation.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, try poaching the shrimp with garlic cloves or a splash of white wine added to the poaching liquid.
- This dish can be prepared in advance; just keep both the shrimp and cocktail sauce well-chilled until serving time.
- Serve with additional lemon wedges and fresh herbs to enhance the presentation and flavor.
