A classic seafood appetizer featuring tender chilled shrimp served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. Elegant, refreshing, and perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Boiling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Calorie
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
1 lemon, sliced
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
Water, for boiling
Ice, for chilling
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
Fill a large pot with water and add lemon slices, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and opaque.
Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Chill for several minutes, then drain and pat dry.
In a small bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper to make the cocktail sauce.
Arrange the chilled shrimp on a serving platter or around a cocktail glass with the sauce in the center.
Serve cold with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Add extra horseradish or hot sauce for a spicier sauce.
Grill the shrimp instead of boiling for a smoky variation.
Add avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a Mexican-style twist.
Mix in a splash of Bloody Mary mix for extra flavor.
Store shrimp and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Avoid reheating shrimp to prevent a rubbery texture.