Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarón)

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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarón)

Description

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing, chilled seafood dish featuring tender shrimp tossed in a zesty tomato-based sauce with fresh vegetables, citrus, and herbs. Unlike traditional shrimp cocktail, this version is juicy, spoonable, and bursting with bold Mexican flavors. Perfect for warm weather, light meals, or appetizers.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 30–60 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

Shrimp

  • 1½ lbs raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 lime, halved

Cocktail Base

  • 1½ cups tomato juice (or Clamato for authentic flavor)

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

  • 1–2 tbsp hot sauce (Valentina, Cholula, or Tapatío)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Fresh Add-Ins

  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • ½ cup tomato, diced

  • ½ cup cilantro, chopped

  • 1–2 avocados, diced

For Serving

  • Lime wedges

  • Saltine crackers or tostadas

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp
    Bring a pot of water to a boil with salt and lime halves.
    Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes, just until pink and opaque.
    Immediately transfer shrimp to ice water to stop cooking. Drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.

  2. Make the Sauce
    In a large bowl, whisk together tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.

  3. Combine
    Add shrimp, red onion, cucumber, tomato, and cilantro to the sauce.
    Gently stir until well combined.

  4. Chill
    Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let flavors develop.

  5. Finish & Serve
    Fold in diced avocado just before serving.
    Serve cold with lime wedges and crackers or tostadas.

Notes

  • Clamato adds a briny seafood depth but tomato juice works perfectly

  • Add avocado last to prevent browning

  • Texture should be juicy, not soupy — adjust liquid to preference

Tips for Best Flavor

  • Use fresh lime juice only

  • Don’t overcook shrimp — they should be tender

  • Chill at least 30 minutes for authentic taste

  • Add a splash of orange juice for a coastal Mexican twist

Variations

  • Add diced jalapeño or serrano for heat 🌶️

  • Include octopus or imitation crab for a seafood mix

  • Use V8 juice for extra veggie flavor

Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~220

  • Protein: ~25 g

  • Carbs: ~12 g

  • Fat: ~8 g

  • Fiber: ~4 g

(Values vary based on avocado and sauce amount)

Health Benefits

  • High in lean protein

  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

  • Packed with vitamin C from citrus

  • Hydrating and low-calorie

  • Heart-healthy and great for weight management

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Make up to 24 hours ahead. Add avocado just before serving.

Q: Is this spicy?
A: Mild by default — spice level is adjustable with hot sauce or peppers.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but fresh-cooked shrimp has better texture and flavor.

Q: Is it served as a drink or food?
A: Both! It’s traditionally eaten with a spoon and crackers.

Q: How long does it last?
A: 2 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

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