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Authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones)

Close-up of a glass filled with vibrant mexican shrimp cocktail featuring plump shrimp, avocado chunks, and diced tomatoes.
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Make this refreshing Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, a zesty and flavorful appetizer perfect for warm weather or gatherings. You get plump shrimp in a tangy, tomato-based sauce with fresh vegetables and lime.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs large shrimp, cooked and peeled
  • 1 cup tomato juice
  • 1/2 cup Clamato juice (optional, omit for Clamato-free)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1/2 cup finely diced ripe tomato
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cucumber
  • 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced (for topping)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
  • Tortilla chips or saltine crackers (for serving)

Instructions

  1. If your shrimp are not already cooked, boil or steam them until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the tomato juice, Clamato juice (if using), fresh lime juice, and ketchup. Whisk until the mixture is uniform.
  3. Stir in the chopped onion, diced tomato, diced cucumber, minced jalapeño, and cilantro into the tomato mixture.
  4. Season the sauce generously with salt and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the lime juice or salt as needed for a bright, zesty flavor.
  5. Gently fold the cooked and cooled shrimp into the sauce mixture.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. You want this dish chilled.
  7. When ready to serve, divide the shrimp cocktail mixture among chilled glasses or bowls.
  8. Top each serving with diced avocado. Offer hot sauce on the side for those who want extra spice.
  9. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or saltine crackers.

Notes

  • For an authentic taste, use high-quality, plump shrimp. This recipe works well even with good quality frozen, cooked shrimp.
  • If you skip the Clamato juice, increase the tomato juice slightly and add a pinch of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
  • You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables up to a day ahead. Add the shrimp and avocado just before serving.
  • This refreshing seafood appetizer is a great healthy shrimp salad alternative when served without crackers.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/mexican-shrimp-cocktail-recipe-zesty-easy/