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The Ultimate Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Quick Homemade Cocktail Sauce

A white bowl filled with chilled, seasoned shrimp surrounding a central ramekin of red shrimp cocktail sauce.
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Make this classic shrimp appetizer for your next party. This recipe features plump, chilled shrimp served with a tangy, homemade cocktail sauce. It is simple to prepare and impressive for entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: Fill a large pot with water to cover the shrimp. Add the lemon halves, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shrimp curl and turn pink. Do not overcook.
  3. Immediately drain the shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the chilled shrimp well and pat them dry. Place them in the refrigerator to chill completely for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Make the homemade cocktail sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. You want a zesty flavor.
  7. To serve, arrange the chilled shrimp around a small bowl filled with the homemade cocktail sauce. This makes an elegant party food centerpiece.

Notes

  • For the best presentation, serve the shrimp cocktail on a platter with crushed ice underneath the shrimp.
  • You can make the cocktail sauce up to three days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
  • If you want a spicy shrimp cocktail, add more horseradish or hot sauce to the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-appetizer-sauce/