Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail – Best Seafood Recipe
There’s nothing more refreshing and satisfying than a chilled bowl of authentic Mexican shrimp cocktail. Bursting with fresh flavors, juicy shrimp, and an irresistibly zesty tomato-based sauce, this classic seafood dish is perfect for hot summer days, family gatherings, or as an elegant appetizer. This easy Mexican shrimp cocktail recipe brings together plump, poached shrimp mixed with tangy Clamato juice, zesty lime, creamy avocado, crisp cucumbers, and spicy jalapeño for a deliciously balanced bite every time.
Mexican shrimp cocktail, known as cóctel de camarón, is not your traditional shrimp cocktail with cocktail sauce. Instead, it features a slightly soupy consistency, packed with bold Mexican flavors and fresh ingredients, making it even more delightful with crunchy tortilla chips or salty saltine crackers. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, as a light lunch, or for a seafood lover’s feast, this shrimp cocktail recipe effortlessly impresses with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, each spoonful delivers a citrusy freshness followed by a mild heat.
- Texture: Crisp vegetables contrast with tender shrimp, creamy avocado, and the smooth sauce, making every bite exciting.
- Aroma: A medley of fresh lime, fragrant cilantro, ripe tomatoes, and spicy jalapeños fills the air, teasing your taste buds.
- Visual Appeal: A colorful combination of bright greens, reds, and pinks makes this dish a showstopper on any table.
- Skill Level Needed: Simple chopping, mixing, and poaching techniques make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
- Special Equipment: A large mixing bowl, knife, cutting board, and a pot for poaching shrimp are all you need.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy – This recipe requires only basic cooking techniques like poaching shrimp and mixing ingredients.
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood Dish
- Cuisine: Mexican – Inspired by coastal flavors and traditional Latin ingredients.
- Cost: Moderate – Shrimp is the main expense, but the remaining ingredients are affordable and easily accessible.
- Season: Perfect for summer but can be enjoyed year-round.
- Occasion: Great for parties, barbecues, light lunches, or seafood-themed dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This authentic Mexican shrimp cocktail is packed with refreshing flavors, textures, and a hint of spiciness that will keep your taste buds delighted. The combination of fresh lime juice, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and plump shrimp makes each bite an explosion of Mexican coastal flavors.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to prepare. The shrimp cook quickly, and the rest of the ingredients simply need to be chopped and combined, making it a fuss-free recipe that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Additionally, this recipe is packed with essential nutrients. Shrimp provides a great source of protein, while avocado adds healthy fats, and the fresh vegetables contribute vitamins and fiber. It’s a guilt-free, wholesome dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
This dish is perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or a seafood night with friends, its vibrant presentation and bold flavor make it a guaranteed hit.
Finally, this recipe is cost-effective. Shrimp is an affordable seafood option, and the remaining ingredients are easily accessible, making this an excellent choice for a budget-friendly yet gourmet-style meal.
The Recipe
Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium pot for poaching shrimp
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Clamato juice
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, diced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips or saltine crackers for serving
Directions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain and immediately place in an ice bath to cool.
- Once cooled, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole if preferred.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Clamato juice, ketchup, lime juice, and salt and pepper. Stir to mix well.
- Add the chopped shrimp, red onion, jalapeño, cucumber, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Mix gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or saltine crackers.
Recipe Notes
- For extra heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Chilling the shrimp cocktail for longer enhances the flavors.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.