This classic shrimp cocktail recipe delivers a perfect balance of succulent seafood and zesty sauce in just 5 minutes. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or an elegant appetizer, this protein-rich starter keeps things light at only 41 calories per serving.
The refreshing combination offers a delightful blend of flavors while providing essential nutrients like Vitamin A and C, making it a guilt-free choice for seafood lovers.
Ingredients for Classic Shrimp Cocktail
- Ketchup: 1 cup, either store-bought or homemade for the sauce base
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon, adds brightness and balances flavors
- Prepared Horseradish: 1 teaspoon, brings a zesty kick to the sauce
- Large Shrimp: 1½ pounds, cooked with tails on, rinsed in cold water for best texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, lemon juice, and horseradish until well blended
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and customize to your preference – add more horseradish for extra heat or ketchup for milder flavor
- Chill: Refrigerate the sauce for best results. Can be made several days ahead
- Final Assembly: Arrange the cold shrimp around a serving bowl filled with the cocktail sauce
Make-Ahead Tips
The cocktail sauce tastes even better when made a day or two ahead! Simply mix up your sauce and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will blend beautifully, and you’ll have one less thing to do when you’re ready to serve. The sauce stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Customization Ideas
Love spicy food? Add more horseradish for extra kick! If you prefer a milder sauce, increase the ketchup. You can also try these tasty add-ins:
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth
- A dash of hot sauce for heat
- A pinch of celery salt for extra zip
- Fresh grated horseradish instead of prepared
Serving Tips
Make your shrimp cocktail look amazing with these simple ideas:
- Serve the sauce in a small bowl nested in a larger bowl filled with crushed ice
- Hang shrimp around the edge of a glass or bowl for that classic look
- Add lemon wedges and fresh parsley for color
- Keep everything well-chilled until serving time
Easy Shrimp Cocktail
Equipment
- Bowl
Ingredients
For Cocktail Sauce
- 1 cup ketchup homemade or store-bought
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp cooked, tail-on, rinsed with cold water
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix well to combine.
- Taste and adjust to your preference (more horseradish if you want it spicier and more ketchup if you want it mellower).
- The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for several days in advance.
- Serve cold with shrimp.
