Description
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp combined with tangy tomato sauce, fresh lime juice, crunchy vegetables, and a blend of spices. Perfect as an appetizer, light meal, or party dip, this zesty recipe is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, customizable in spice level, and packed with wholesome protein and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb medium to large peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Base Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1–2 minced jalapeños or chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Fresh Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Start by cooking shrimp until just pink and tender, about 2-3 minutes per side in boiling water or lightly sautéed. Cool them before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the tomato sauce, fresh lime juice, diced onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Stir well to create the tangy sauce.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Gently fold in the chopped cucumber and optional diced avocado, preserving their texture and color.
- Combine Shrimp with Sauce: Mix the chopped shrimp into the tomato-lime base, making sure they are evenly coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cocktail for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the dish chill. Serve cold for best taste.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust lime juice and tomato sauce carefully to balance acidity and avoid overpowering the shrimp.
- Serve the cocktail chilled for a refreshing experience.
- Add chili or jalapeño gradually to control spice level.
- Use clear glassware or hollowed vegetables for an elegant presentation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture and flavor.
- Best served cold; avoid reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: Mexican shrimp cocktail, seafood appetizer, zesty shrimp, fresh shrimp cocktail, gluten free appetizer, spicy shrimp cocktail