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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

The Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a bright, refreshing, and soul-packed seafood dish featuring plump shrimp in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce combined with fresh vegetables and bold seasonings. Perfect as a starter, light meal, or party favorite, this recipe delivers explosively fresh flavors with a perfectly balanced blend of tangy, spicy, and sweet notes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it is highly customizable and ideal for entertaining when served chilled with vibrant garnishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Vegetables

  • 1 lb fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Sauce

  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 2 tbsp ketchup or chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp jalapeño, finely chopped or hot sauce, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Boil or steam the shrimp until they turn pink and curl neatly. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly and stop further cooking. Set aside to chill.
  2. Chop and Mix the Vegetables: Dice the onion, cucumber, avocado, and cilantro finely. Combine all in a large bowl to prepare the fresh components that add crunchy texture and vibrant color.
  3. Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together tomato juice, ketchup or chili sauce, lime juice, jalapeño or hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and adjust acidity, spice, and seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold the chilled shrimp and chopped vegetables into the cocktail sauce, making sure every piece is coated perfectly without smooshing the avocado. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail chilled in clear glasses or bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges for an inviting, colorful presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery, tough texture.
  • Chill the cocktail well to intensify flavors and maintain refreshing coolness.
  • Adjust spice level gradually to balance heat and freshness.
  • Add crunchy vegetables like radishes or jicama just before serving to retain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican shrimp cocktail, seafood appetizer, spicy shrimp cocktail, shrimp cocktail recipe, refreshing shrimp dish