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Shrimp Cocktail Recipe: Easy Homemade Sauce for Perfect Party Appetizer

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This classic shrimp cocktail features perfectly poached, juicy shrimp served chilled with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer ideal for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of nostalgia and fresh flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), shell-on, deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 4–5 black peppercorns (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Pinch of kosher salt, to taste
  • Pinch of black pepper, to taste
  • Extra lemon wedges (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
  • Crushed ice or lettuce leaves (for serving platter)

Instructions

  1. If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold running water for 10-15 minutes. Peel, leaving tails on. Rinse and pat dry.
  2. In a large pot, combine water, sliced lemon, kosher salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add shrimp to simmering water. Stir gently to submerge. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until shrimp are opaque and curl into a loose ‘C’ shape.
  4. Transfer shrimp immediately to a large bowl of ice water using a slotted spoon. Chill for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Remove shrimp from ice bath and pat dry. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve (up to 1 day ahead).
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. On a serving platter, layer crushed ice or lettuce leaves. Arrange shrimp in a single layer with tails out. Place cocktail sauce in the center. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp; they should be opaque and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Plunging shrimp into an ice bath keeps them firm and snappy. Sauce flavors develop as it sits—make ahead if possible. For variations, try grilling the shrimp or adding Cajun seasoning for extra spice. Always check labels for gluten in Worcestershire sauce if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp cocktail, party appetizer, homemade cocktail sauce, seafood, gluten-free, dairy-free, easy shrimp recipe, classic appetizer

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/shrimp-cocktail-recipe-easy-homemade-sauce-for-perfect-party-appetizer/