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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing seafood dish featuring succulent cooked shrimp mixed in a tangy tomato-based sauce with fresh vegetables, lime juice, and customizable spice. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, this recipe combines bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and easy preparation for a delicious taste of Mexico.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 lb medium to large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

Base

  • 2 cups tomato sauce or Clamato juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomato
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Spices

  • Chili peppers or hot sauce, to taste (such as 1-2 serrano peppers or 1-2 tsp hot sauce)

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup diced avocado (for creamy texture)
  • 1/2 cup cooked octopus or crab meat (for extra seafood mix)
  • 1/2 cup diced mango (for a sweet, tropical twist)
  • Substitute shrimp with hearts of palm or mushrooms for a vegetarian option
  • Use mild salsa instead of chili peppers for a less spicy version

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp: Boil the shrimp in water until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately transfer them to an ice water bath to stop cooking and maintain a firm, juicy texture.
  2. Prepare the Cocktail Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce or Clamato juice with fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a tangy and flavorful foundation.
  3. Add Fresh Vegetables: Fold in the chopped onions, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and chopped cilantro to provide texture, freshness, and balance to the cocktail.
  4. Incorporate Shrimp and Spice: Gently add the chilled shrimp to the bowl along with your choice of chili peppers or hot sauce. Mix carefully to combine all ingredients without breaking the shrimp.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold for the best refreshing taste experience.

Notes

  • Choose the freshest shrimp possible for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t skip the ice bath after boiling to prevent overcooking.
  • Adjust lime juice gradually to control acidity and balance flavors.
  • Chill the cocktail before serving to enhance flavor blending and refreshment.
  • Add chili peppers or hot sauce incrementally to customize the spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, seafood appetizer, shrimp cocktail, spicy shrimp, fresh shrimp salad, Mexican appetizers

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/mexican-shrimp-cocktail/