Dessert

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Name: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice; 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; 1 cucumber, peeled and diced; 1 avocado, diced; 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional) (For extra heat); Salt and pepper to taste; Lime wedges for serving

Byanna orden August 16, 2026August 16, 2026

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Introduction

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a light appetizer. Packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty tomato-based sauce, it combines tender shrimp with bold flavors for a quick and satisfying treat.

A clear glass filled with a shrimp cocktail showing multiple layers: the bottom layer is a red tomato-based sauce mixed with small white onion pieces and green cilantro bits, followed by layers of pink shrimp curled around diced green avocado and more red and green vegetables. The shrimp have a glossy texture and are arranged with pieces of bright green avocado on top, sprinkled with chopped cilantro. The background is a white marbled surface with a blurred half lemon visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 avocado, diced
1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cleaned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.
Step 2: Drain the shrimp and plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce. Stir well to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Add chopped cilantro, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and jalapeño if using. Mix gently.
Step 5: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and fold in the chilled shrimp carefully to avoid mashing the avocado.
Step 6: Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.

Tips & Variations

For a milder cocktail, omit the jalapeño or use a small amount of hot sauce according to your heat preference.
Use fresh lime juice for the best zesty flavor in the sauce.
Add diced mango or pineapple for a fruity twist that complements the shrimp well.
Serve in individual glasses or bowls for an elegant presentation at parties.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Refrain from reheating; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A clear glass filled with a layered shrimp cocktail featuring plump, pink shrimp mixed with diced bright green avocado chunks and small red tomato pieces, all coated in a shiny, red tomato-based sauce with specks of fresh green herbs distributed evenly throughout. The shrimp are curled and glossy, sitting on top and throughout the mixture, giving texture and depth. The background is a white marbled texture with a blurred lemon wedge visible at the edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking. Be sure to pat them dry to maintain the sauce’s consistency and flavor.

Is it possible to prepare the cocktail sauce in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables a few hours ahead. Add the shrimp and avocado just before serving to keep everything fresh and maintain the best texture.