This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a fresh and zesty dish bursting with flavor! The combination of plump shrimp, tangy lime, and savory spices will leave your taste buds dancing.
I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips—perfect for dipping! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for a quick gathering or a sunny day snack. Who could resist such deliciousness? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use medium shrimp for that perfect bite! If you can’t find cooked shrimp, fresh raw shrimp works too—just remember to boil them until pink and opaque. For a twist, consider using scallops or crab meat!
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are ideal, but if they aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch. Fire-roasted canned tomatoes will add extra flavor.
Cilantro: I love how fresh cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute. It gives a nice green touch without the strong flavor of cilantro.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the hot sauce to your liking! For a milder option, try skipping it or using a chipotle sauce, which adds smokiness too.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Stay Tender?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to keeping them tender and juicy. If you’re starting with raw shrimp, here’s what to do:
- Bring water to a full boil and add salt for flavor.
- Add the shrimp and cook for no more than 2-3 minutes. They cook quickly!
- Once they turn pink, immediately drain and cool them in cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them from becoming rubbery.
By handling the shrimp with care, you’ll ensure they remain delicious in your cocktail!
Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound medium cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup tomato juice or Clamato (tomato-clam juice blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Valentina or Tabasco), or to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful shrimp cocktail takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill. You’ll have a delicious dish ready in about 45 minutes, perfect for serving at your next get-together or enjoying as a refreshing snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Shrimp:
If you’re starting with raw shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they’re pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shrimp, let them cool, and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mixing the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, celery, jalapeño or serrano pepper (if using), and fresh cilantro. These fresh ingredients are the heart of your shrimp cocktail!
3. Adding the Shrimp:
Now, add the chopped shrimp to the bowl of vegetables. Mix gently to combine all the delicious flavors.
4. Creating the Cocktail Sauce:
Pour in the tomato juice or Clamato, along with the fresh lime juice. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
5. Seasoning:
Add hot sauce to your preference, along with salt and pepper. Stir again, tasting as you go to make sure the flavors are just right!
6. Fold in the Avocado:
Finally, carefully fold in the diced avocado to keep it from mashing. This creamy element adds a wonderful texture!
7. Chilling the Cocktail:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
8. Serving Time:
When you’re ready to serve, dish the shrimp cocktail into chilled glasses or bowls. Garnish with lime wedges and, if you like, serve it with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side for a delightful crunch.
Enjoy your authentic Mexican shrimp cocktail, a refreshing and tasty shareable dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover shrimp cocktail can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but it’s best to enjoy it fresh for the optimal texture and taste!
What If I Don’t Like Cilantro?
No problem at all! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley. It’ll still provide a nice green touch and flavor without being overpowering.
Can I Make This Shrimp Cocktail Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding more jalapeño or serrano peppers, or even a dash of cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, you can also increase the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste! Just remember to taste as you go.
