Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, known as Cóctel de Camarones, is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings or light meals. This recipe combines plump shrimp with a zesty mix of tomato juice, fresh veggies, and a hint of spice, making it a perfect appetizer or a light main course. Unlike its American cousin, this Mexican version is not just shrimp and cocktail sauce—it’s a vibrant mixture of citrusy, spicy, and sweet flavors that tantalize the palate. This dish is typically served cold, making it a fantastic option for hot days, and it pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup tomato juice (Clamato or V8 for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (adjust according to your heat tolerance)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (adds a refreshing crunch)
• 1/2 cup tomato, diced (choose ripe tomatoes for sweetness)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (brings a burst of freshness)
• 1 avocado, diced (adds creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving (perfect for scooping up the shrimp cocktail)

Preparation:

Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the tomato juice, ketchup, and lime juice. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined. The tomato juice serves as the base, while the ketchup adds a slight sweetness and depth to the mixture. The lime juice provides a necessary zing that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Step 2:

Add the finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, cucumber, tomato, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir everything thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed. These vegetables and herbs not only add color and texture but also give the cocktail a fresh, lively flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich shrimp.

Step 3:

Now, it’s time to add the star of the dish—shrimp. Gently fold the shrimp into the tomato mixture. Make sure you handle the shrimp delicately to prevent them from becoming mushy. The shrimp should be fully coated in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the wonderful citrus and vegetable flavors.

Step 4:

Carefully fold in the diced avocado. The avocado adds a creamy texture to the dish, balancing the acidity of the lime and tomato juice. Be gentle while mixing, as avocados are delicate and can easily turn mushy if over-stirred.

Step 5:

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one final gentle stir to make sure the seasoning is evenly spread throughout the cocktail. Now, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

COOKING Note:

• For those who love extra spice, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can adjust the level of heat to your preference. If you prefer a milder cocktail, reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.
• If you’re using raw shrimp, ensure they are properly cooked before adding them to the cocktail. You can boil them in salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this vibrant shrimp cocktail cold, accompanied by tortilla chips on the side. The chips add a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of the shrimp and avocado.
• You can also serve the shrimp cocktail in individual glasses or bowls for a more formal presentation. Garnish with an extra sprig of cilantro or a lime wedge for added flair.
• For a complete meal, serve the cocktail alongside Mexican rice or as part of a taco night spread.

Tips:

1. Pre-cooked shrimp: To save time, use shrimp that has already been cooked, peeled, and deveined. However, if you prefer fresh shrimp, boil them until they are opaque and pink, then cool before adding to the mixture.
2. Customize the spice level: If you’re serving a crowd, you can offer hot sauce on the side to let guests adjust the heat level to their liking.
3. Make ahead: This cocktail can be prepared a day in advance. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
4. Tomato juice options: For a richer flavor, use Clamato juice, which adds a slightly briny taste, or V8 juice, which is thicker and packs in more veggies.
5. Fresh vs. frozen shrimp: While fresh shrimp delivers the best flavor, frozen shrimp works just as well and is more convenient. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cocktail.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just chilling)

Total Time: 45 minutes (including 30 minutes of chilling)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 220 Kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 700mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use another type of seafood?

Yes! You can substitute the shrimp with other seafood like crab meat, scallops, or a combination of your favorites. Just ensure everything is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the mixture.

2. What if I don’t have tomato juice?

If you don’t have tomato juice, you can blend fresh tomatoes and strain the juice, or use a can of crushed tomatoes for a thicker consistency. Add a bit of water to reach the desired texture.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Replace the shrimp with diced tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version. The texture of firm tofu works great with the rest of the ingredients.

4. How long can I store Mexican Shrimp Cocktail?

This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to consume it on the same day for optimal freshness, especially since avocado can turn brown over time.

5. Can I freeze this shrimp cocktail?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the shrimp and avocado will change after thawing, becoming mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a short period.

Conclusion:

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a delightful dish that brings a burst of fresh, bold flavors to your table. Its combination of citrus, tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and creamy avocado creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Whether served as an appetizer, a light meal, or part of a larger Mexican-inspired feast, this shrimp cocktail is sure to impress. Its quick preparation and ability to be made ahead make it an excellent choice for gatherings, picnics, or just a simple weeknight meal. Grab some tortilla chips and dive into this flavorful and refreshing dish!

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