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Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing, zesty seafood dish combining fresh shrimp, tangy tomato juice, lime, and vibrant herbs and spices. Perfect as an appetizer, light meal, or party snack, it delivers a balanced burst of spicy, citrusy, and savory flavors that excite the palate while being nutritious and low in calories.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seafood

  • 1 pound medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or cooked)

Liquids

  • 2 cups tomato juice (preferably low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 12 tablespoons hot sauce or to taste

Fresh Produce

  • 1/2 cup diced ripe tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber (optional)
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red or white onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 12 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Boil or steam peeled and deveined shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking and preserve tenderness.
  2. Chop Fresh Ingredients: Dice tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and avocado into small, even pieces. Finely chop cilantro and jalapeños (if using) to ensure even distribution of flavor.
  3. Mix the Cocktail Base: In a large bowl, combine tomato juice, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend the tangy and spicy flavors evenly.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked shrimp and chopped fresh produce into the tomato juice mixture. Gently toss to coat everything evenly in the zesty sauce.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro and avocado slices for an attractive presentation.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
  • Taste and adjust acidity by modifying lime or tomato juice before serving.
  • Chill thoroughly to meld flavors and maintain shrimp firmness.
  • Add avocado just before serving or coat with lime juice to prevent browning.
  • Adjust spice gradually by starting with a small amount of jalapeño or hot sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, seafood appetizer, shrimp cocktail, spicy shrimp, summer appetizer, gluten free seafood, party snack