Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mexican Shrimp Cocktail featuring perfectly boiled shrimp mixed with crisp vegetables and a tangy, zesty tomato-based sauce. This easy-to-make appetizer is ideal for warm weather and gatherings, combining fresh flavors and a subtle spicy kick for a delightful seafood treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Vegetables
- 2 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and chopped
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 2 avocados, chopped
- Handful of chopped cilantro
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
Sauce
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- Juice of 1 orange
- 11.5 oz tomato juice
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- Hot sauce, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil the shrimp: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until they curl into a loose “C” shape, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
- Prepare the shrimp: Once cooled, drain the shrimp and cut them into bite-sized chunks. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl, ready for the other ingredients.
- Chop the vegetables: Thinly slice the celery, chop the jalapeño (with seeds removed for less heat), cucumber, avocados, cilantro, and finely chop the onion. Add all the vegetables to the bowl with the shrimp, mixing gently.
- Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the juice and zest of the limes and orange with the tomato juice, tomato sauce, grated garlic, hot sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are fully blended.
- Combine and coat: Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill the cocktail: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the cocktail to chill.
- Serve: Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail chilled. It makes a refreshing appetizer or snack perfect for warm days or festive occasions.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality shrimp and fresh lime and orange juice.
- Adjust the level of hot sauce to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Serve immediately after chilling to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
- Can be served in individual cups or bowls for easy entertaining.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours but are best enjoyed fresh.
