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Easy 15-Minute Shrimp Cocktail Recipe Perfect for Fresh Appetizers

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A quick and fresh shrimp cocktail recipe ready in under 15 minutes, featuring perfectly poached shrimp and a tangy homemade cocktail sauce with horseradish and lemon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation if you like)
  • 4 cups (950ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the poaching liquid: In a large pot, combine 4 cups (950ml) of water, kosher salt, lemon slices, smashed garlic cloves, and the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Once the poaching liquid is boiling, reduce heat to medium and add the shrimp. Stir gently to submerge. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
  3. Drain and cool: Use a slotted spoon to transfer shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and keep them tender. Let chill for about 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Make the cocktail sauce: While shrimp chill, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  5. Plate and serve: Arrange shrimp on a serving dish or in cocktail glasses. Spoon the cocktail sauce alongside or drizzle lightly over shrimp. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Notes

Use wild-caught shrimp if possible for best flavor. Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed gently in cold water before cooking. Start with less horseradish and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the sauce. Chill serving glasses beforehand to keep shrimp cold longer. Store shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp cocktail, quick appetizer, seafood appetizer, easy shrimp recipe, cocktail sauce, poached shrimp, party appetizer

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/easy-15-minute-shrimp-cocktail-recipe-perfect-for-fresh-appetizers/