Shrimp cocktail is a timeless appetizer that never goes out of style. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a laid-back game day gathering. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, shrimp cocktail is both delicious and easy to make. Plus, it’s low in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Let’s dive into the essentials of creating this classic dish, from ingredients to serving tips.
Key Takeaways
- Shrimp cocktail is a versatile appetizer suitable for both formal and casual events.
- Using jumbo shrimp and pre-made cocktail sauce simplifies the preparation process.
- The dish is both low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for gatherings.
Ingredient List and Measurements
Creating a shrimp cocktail is all about using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Shrimp Poaching Liquid
- 3 quarts cold water
- ¼ onion, sliced
- ½ lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and bruised
- 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon seafood seasoning (like Old Bay®)
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Cocktail Sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup chili sauce
- ¼ cup prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 drops hot sauce, or to taste
- 1 pinch salt
Shrimp
- 2 pounds shell-on deveined jumbo shrimp
The secret to a great shrimp cocktail is balancing the flavors. The poaching liquid infuses the shrimp with subtle hints of lemon and tarragon, while the cocktail sauce adds a zesty kick.
Having everything measured and ready before you start cooking makes the process smoother and ensures that you won’t miss any steps. Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, you’re ready to move on to the cooking method.
Cooking Method
Step 1
Begin by preparing the poaching liquid. Fill a large pot with about 3 quarts of cold water. Add a quarter of a sliced onion, half a lemon, two peeled and bruised garlic cloves, and two sprigs of fresh tarragon. Sprinkle in a tablespoon of seafood seasoning, a teaspoon of whole black peppercorns, and a bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2
While the poaching liquid is simmering, prepare the cocktail sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together half a cup of ketchup, a quarter cup of chili sauce, a quarter cup of prepared horseradish, a teaspoon of lemon juice, a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a few drops of hot sauce. Add a pinch of salt to taste. Once mixed, refrigerate the sauce for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors develop.
Step 3
With the poaching liquid ready, bring it to a rapid boil. Add two pounds of shell-on, deveined jumbo shrimp to the pot. Cook the shrimp until they turn bright pink and the meat is opaque, which should take about 5 minutes. Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
Step 4
Once the shrimp are chilled, drain them from the ice water. Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails intact, as they make a convenient handle for dipping.
Final Step
Arrange the cold shrimp on a serving platter. Divide the chilled cocktail sauce into individual small bowls or glasses, and hang the shrimp from the rims for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy this classic appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
"This method ensures that the shrimp are perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy, providing a delightful contrast to the tangy cocktail sauce."
For a delightful seafood experience, consider pairing this shrimp cocktail with a crispy crab cake, which offers a flaky interior and complements the shrimp’s flavors beautifully.
Serving and Pairing Recommendations
When it comes to serving shrimp cocktail, presentation is key. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of cocktail sauce for a classic look. You can also serve them in individual glasses, which adds a touch of elegance to any gathering.
Pairing Suggestions
- White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp’s delicate flavor.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is refreshing.
- Lemon Wedges: Always have lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or crackers to add a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Vegetables: A platter of fresh veggies like celery, carrots, and cherry tomatoes makes for a colorful and healthy addition.
- Cheese Platter: A mild cheese platter can be a delightful companion, balancing the tangy cocktail sauce.
Shrimp cocktail is a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of beverages and sides, making it a favorite for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you’re hosting a seafood-themed dinner or a simple get-together, this classic dish is sure to impress your guests.
Nutritional Information
When you’re diving into a shrimp cocktail, it’s not just about the taste—there’s some nutritional value to consider too. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 135 | – |
| Total Fat | 1g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat | 0g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 30mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 1449mg | 63% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32g | 12% |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g | 17% |
| Total Sugars | 17g | – |
| Protein | 6g | – |
| Vitamin C | 78mg | 392% |
| Calcium | 72mg | 6% |
| Iron | 2mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 476mg | 10% |
Note: These values are calculated using a general ingredient database and should be seen as estimates. Keep in mind that garnishes and optional ingredients aren’t included in these numbers.
For those watching their carb intake, the cocktail sauce is a low-carb option with only 3 grams of net carbs per 2 tablespoons. Check out the detailed nutritional information for more insights on the sauce and how it complements the shrimp.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a shrimp cocktail that’s both a breeze to whip up and a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just having a few friends over for the game, this classic appetizer never disappoints. It’s light, tasty, and looks pretty impressive too. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all day. So next time you’re planning a get-together, remember this shrimp cocktail recipe. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
