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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Zesty Sauce

A plate of chilled, cooked shrimp arranged around a small glass bowl of bright red shrimp cocktail sauce.
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Make an impressive, easy shrimp cocktail appetizer using plump, chilled shrimp and a tangy, homemade dipping sauce. This recipe is perfect for parties and holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp: Fill a large pot with water, add the lemon halves, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shrimp curl and turn pink. Do not overcook.
  3. Immediately drain the shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the chilled shrimp well and pat them dry. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using. Mix until smooth.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and chill the sauce for at least 15 minutes.
  7. Assemble the shrimp cocktail: Arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a large serving glass or platter. Place a small bowl of the homemade cocktail sauce in the center.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For the best presentation, use shrimp that are already cooked and deveined, or cook them yourself using seasoned water.
  • You can make the cocktail sauce up to two days ahead of time; flavor deepens as it rests.
  • If you want an extra zesty appetizer, add a teaspoon of finely grated fresh lemon zest to the sauce mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-zesty-sauce-recipe/