Chilled Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce

Chilled Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce is a classic and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.

Tender, juicy shrimp are chilled and served with a zesty, spicy cocktail sauce that adds the perfect balance of heat and tang. This dish is quick to prepare, refreshing, and perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a starter to a meal.

The combination of fresh shrimp and bold cocktail sauce is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp cocktail is a perfect combination of flavors, with the natural sweetness of the shrimp paired with a tangy, spicy cocktail sauce that gives it an extra kick.

The chill of the shrimp and the tangy sauce make it an incredibly refreshing and light appetizer.

Plus, it’s simple to make and looks impressive when served, making it ideal for entertaining or enjoying a special treat.

Ingredients:

1- For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon salt

2- For the Spicy Cocktail Sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons horseradish (adjust based on spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or your preferred variety)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the lemon halves, bay leaf, and salt. Once the water is boiling, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and chill the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Cocktail Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning or horseradish for extra spice if desired.
3. Serve: Once the shrimp are chilled, drain them and arrange them on a serving platter or individual glasses. Serve the shrimp with the cocktail sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Expert Tips for the Recipe:

• Shrimp Selection: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking.
• Spicy Sauce Variations: Adjust the spice level of the cocktail sauce by adding more horseradish, hot sauce, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Presentation: For an elegant presentation, serve the shrimp in a large bowl filled with crushed ice or individual glasses with the shrimp hanging over the rim.

Chilled Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce

Chilled Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce is a classic and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on)
• 1 lemon halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp salt
• For the Spicy Cocktail Sauce:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Boil shrimp with lemon, bay leaf, and salt for 2-3 minutes until pink. Chill in ice water.
• Mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire, hot sauce, and smoked paprika for the cocktail sauce.
• Serve chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.