Zesty & Refreshing: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, also known as Coctel de Camarones, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days, casual gatherings, or even a light and satisfying meal. Unlike the creamy, mayo-based shrimp cocktails you might find elsewhere, this version is bursting with fresh, tangy flavors from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of heat from jalapeños. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bright, bold tastes that will transport you straight to a sunny Mexican beach.

This recipe offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the plump, juicy shrimp to the crunchy vegetables and the smooth, flavorful broth. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cooking, and can be easily customized to your liking. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, with more or less avocado, this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños creates a bright and zesty flavor profile that is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With minimal cooking required, this recipe comes together quickly and easily.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and spice level to your liking. Add more jalapeño for extra heat, or less if you prefer it mild.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Packed with protein and vitamins, this shrimp cocktail is a healthy and refreshing option for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a great appetizer or light meal for parties, picnics, and potlucks. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Shrimp: Use cooked shrimp, preferably medium or large size. You can buy pre-cooked shrimp or cook it yourself. Make sure to devein the shrimp if necessary. About 1 pound.
• Tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are ideal, but any ripe tomatoes will work. You’ll need about 2-3 medium tomatoes, chopped.
• Onion: White onion or red onion, finely chopped. About ½ cup.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro, chopped. About ¼ cup.
• Jalapeño: One jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat). Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling jalapeños!
• Avocado: Ripe avocado, diced. About 1-2 avocados, depending on size.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice. About ¼ cup (from 2-3 limes).
• Tomato Juice or Clamato Juice: This forms the base of the broth. Use tomato juice for a milder flavor, or Clamato juice for a more complex and savory taste. About 1 ½ cups.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. About 2 tablespoons.
• Hot Sauce: Such as Tabasco or Cholula (optional, for extra heat). To taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor. About 1 teaspoon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Garnishes: Lime wedges, avocado slices, cilantro sprigs, tortilla chips or saltine crackers for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Mexican Shrimp Cocktail:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, make sure it’s thawed and drained. If you’re cooking your own shrimp, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the shrimp and pat it dry. Cut the shrimp into bite-sized pieces if desired. Smaller shrimp may not need to be cut.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Finely chop the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Dice the avocado. It’s important to chop the vegetables finely so that they blend well with the other ingredients and create a uniform texture. For the jalapeño, remember to remove the seeds and membranes before chopping to reduce the heat. Wear gloves when handling jalapeños if you have sensitive skin.

Step 3: Mix the Broth

In a large bowl, combine the tomato juice or Clamato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Add the shrimp, chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with the broth. Stir gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the broth.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will become. Before serving, gently stir in the diced avocado. Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail cold in individual glasses or bowls. Garnish with lime wedges, avocado slices, or cilantro sprigs. Serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Use High-Quality Shrimp: The better the quality of the shrimp, the better the final product will be. Look for fresh, plump shrimp that are not overly fishy smelling.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook the shrimp just until it turns pink and opaque.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeño or use a smaller amount. For extra heat, add more jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Add Other Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the cocktail, such as cucumber, celery, or bell peppers.
• Use Different Types of Juice: Experiment with different types of juice, such as mango juice or pineapple juice, for a tropical twist.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the shrimp cocktail with a side of rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
• Add Some Fruit: Add diced mango, pineapple, or watermelon for a sweeter flavor and a tropical touch.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the broth for extra heat.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema to each serving.
• Serve it in a Coconut: For a fun and festive presentation, serve the shrimp cocktail in a hollowed-out coconut.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve in small glasses or bowls with tortilla chips or saltine crackers for dipping.
• As a Light Meal: Serve in a larger bowl with a side of rice or quinoa.
• As Part of a Buffet: Include it in a buffet spread alongside other Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole.
• At a Picnic: Pack the shrimp cocktail in a cooler and take it to a picnic. Make sure to keep it cold.
• At a Pool Party: Serve it poolside as a refreshing and easy-to-eat snack.
• Garnish with Flair: Garnish generously with lime wedges, cilantro sprigs, and avocado slices. A sprinkle of chili powder or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
• Pair with Drinks: Serve with cold Mexican beer, margaritas, or other refreshing cocktails. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with lime are also great choices.

Make Ahead Instructions

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a great dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors meld and deepen as it sits. You can prepare the cocktail up to 24 hours in advance. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the shrimp: Cook or thaw your shrimp and cut into desired size.
2. Chop the vegetables: Finely chop the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
3. Mix the broth: Combine the tomato juice or Clamato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Combine the ingredients: Add the shrimp, chopped vegetables, and broth to a bowl.
5. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
6. Add avocado: Wait to add the avocado until just before serving, as it can turn brown if left in the cocktail for too long.
7. Serve: When ready to serve, gently stir in the diced avocado and garnish as desired.

By making the cocktail ahead of time, you can save yourself time and stress when entertaining. Just be sure to add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may turn brown, but the cocktail will still be safe to eat. The texture of the vegetables might soften slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

It is not recommended to freeze Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, as the texture of the shrimp and vegetables will change when thawed.

Recipe Card

Here’s a printable recipe card for your convenience:

Conclusion

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this taste of Mexico!

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