Zesty Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

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Zesty Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarón Picante)

Description

This Zesty Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant, refreshing appetizer perfect for hot days or casual gatherings. Juicy shrimp are paired with tangy tomato juice, zesty lime, fresh cilantro, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of spice from hot sauce and jalapeños. The result is a burst of flavors—spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet—that dance on your palate with every bite. Serve it chilled in a glass or bowl for a classic presentation.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 4 cups water

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp black peppercorns

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1/2 lemon, sliced

For the Cocktail:

  • 1 cup tomato juice (preferably Mexican style, like Clamato if desired)

  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4–5 limes)

  • 1/4 cup orange juice

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber

  • 1/2 cup chopped tomato

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, adjust to spice preference)

  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)

  • Lime wedges, for serving

  • Tortilla chips or saltines, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp:

    • In a medium pot, bring water, salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, and lemon slices to a boil.

    • Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.

    • Drain and immediately transfer shrimp to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and chop into bite-sized pieces if desired.

  2. Prepare the Cocktail Base:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine tomato juice, lime juice, orange juice, chopped onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

  3. Combine and Chill:

    • Add the shrimp to the cocktail base and gently stir to combine.

    • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

  4. Serve:

    • Serve chilled in glasses or bowls.

    • Top with diced avocado, extra cilantro, or lime wedges.

    • Accompany with tortilla chips or saltine crackers for a fun, crunchy side.

Notes & Tips

  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used. If frozen, thaw completely before cooking.

  • Spice Level: Adjust jalapeños and hot sauce to your preference. For milder flavor, remove seeds from the jalapeño.

  • Tomato Juice Options: Traditional Clamato juice gives a slightly savory and tangy flavor; plain tomato juice works too.

  • Make Ahead: Can be prepared 2–3 hours in advance. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

  • Presentation: Serve in martini glasses for an elegant touch or small bowls for casual gatherings.

Servings

  • 4 servings as an appetizer

  • Can be doubled for larger parties

Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 180 kcal

  • Protein: 22 g

  • Fat: 4 g

  • Saturated Fat: 0.5 g

  • Carbohydrates: 12 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sugars: 6 g

  • Sodium: 680 mg

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

Benefits

  • High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein.

  • Low in Calories: Perfect for a light appetizer.

  • Rich in Vitamins: Lime, tomato, and cilantro provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

  • Heart-Healthy: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.

  • Digestive Aid: The fiber from vegetables like cucumber and tomato supports healthy digestion.

Q/A About This Recipe

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes! If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip the boiling step and simply chop and mix into the cocktail base.

Q: How long can leftovers be stored?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add avocado fresh before serving.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Absolutely! Increase jalapeño or hot sauce according to taste. Some like it fiery with a few dashes of chipotle sauce.

Q: Can this be served as a meal instead of appetizer?
A: Yes! Serve it in larger bowls with tortilla chips, avocado, and extra vegetables for a light, refreshing meal.

Q: Can I add seafood variations?
A: Definitely. Cooked octopus, crab meat, or scallops can complement the shrimp for a mixed seafood cocktail.

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