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Shrimp cocktail on ice with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges

Shrimp Cocktail

Tender poached shrimp, chilled and served with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. A classic make-ahead appetizer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Shrimp
  • 1 pound large raw shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • ½ lemon
  • Lemon wedges for serving
Cocktail Sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1–2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Hot sauce a few dashes, optional

Method
 

  1. Stir together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire and hot sauce. Cover and refrigerate.
  2. Fill a large bowl with ice and water.
  3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil with the salt. Squeeze in the lemon half and drop it in.
  4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until pink and opaque.
  5. Drain and move the shrimp straight to the ice bath. Chill for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  6. Refrigerate until ready to serve, at least 15 minutes. Serve with the cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Add extra hot sauce or horseradish for a spicier sauce.
  • Serve over a tray of ice to keep the shrimp cold.
  • Pre-cooked shrimp work too. Just thaw, dry and serve.