Print

Classic Shrimp Cocktail

A plate of perfectly cooked shrimp cocktail arranged around a bowl of zesty red dipping sauce.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A simple and elegant shrimp cocktail appetizer with tender, perfectly cooked shrimp and a zesty homemade cocktail sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the shrimp. Add the lemon halves and white vinegar. Bring to a boil.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  3. Drain the shrimp and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for at least 15 minutes.
  4. While the shrimp are chilling, prepare the cocktail sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
  5. Season the cocktail sauce with salt and black pepper to your liking.
  6. Once the shrimp are thoroughly chilled, drain them well.
  7. Arrange the shrimp on a platter around a small bowl filled with the cocktail sauce. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use large or jumbo shrimp.
  • You can adjust the amount of horseradish in the cocktail sauce to control the spice level.
  • If you don’t have fresh lemon, you can use bottled lemon juice.
  • This shrimp cocktail is a perfect starter for any holiday meal or special occasion.

Nutrition