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–+ servings

Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Shrimp cocktail is the ultimate appetizer for seafood lovers, offering a delightful combination of tender shrimp and a tangy, flavorful sauce that will impress at any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 Serves
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 2 pounds 16-20 shell-on shrimp deveined, thawed if frozen (see note)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • For the Cocktail Sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice from one lemon
  • ½ teaspoon packed lemon zest, from one lemon
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • A few dashes of hot sauce such as Tabasco, to taste
For Serving (Optional)
  • Crushed ice

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 6 cups of water with the salt and sugar. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water and place it near the sink for immediate use.
  3. Carefully add the shrimp to the boiling water and allow them to cook for precisely 3½ minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. It's normal if the water doesn’t return to a full boil after adding the shrimp.
  4. Once cooked, drain the shrimp in a colander, then quickly transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking. Let the shrimp cool for around 15 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the cocktail sauce by mixing the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
  6. Peel the shrimp, leaving only the tails intact. Arrange the shrimp on a platter over crushed ice, if desired, and serve alongside the cocktail sauce. Enjoy!

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