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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Zesty Cocktail Sauce

A white plate piled high with chilled, cooked shrimp surrounding a small glass bowl of bright red shrimp cocktail sauce.

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Make this classic shrimp cocktail appetizer quickly. Tender chilled shrimp served with a zesty, homemade cocktail sauce provides a fresh, flavorful start to any meal or party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Ice, for serving
  • Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  2. Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them chill for 5 minutes, then drain well.
  3. Prepare the homemade cocktail sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preferred zest level.
  4. Chill both the shrimp and the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  5. Assemble the shrimp cocktail: Arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a large serving platter or individual cocktail glasses. Place a small bowl of the homemade cocktail sauce in the center.
  6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for an easy shrimp appetizer.

Notes

  • You can prepare the cocktail sauce up to three days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
  • For an elegant party food presentation, serve individual portions in martini glasses or small glass cups.
  • If you need a quick seafood starter, use high-quality frozen, cooked shrimp and thaw them completely in the refrigerator before serving.

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