Irresistible Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones) Recipe
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant, refreshing, and flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances zesty citrus, juicy shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a spicy tomato-based sauce. Unlike the American shrimp cocktail, which features plain boiled shrimp with cocktail sauce, the Mexican version is a bold and satisfying mix of flavors and textures, almost like a cross between ceviche and a seafood gazpacho.
This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser at parties, summer gatherings, and family dinners. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce makes it utterly irresistible. Serve it chilled with crunchy tortilla chips or saltine crackers, and you have an appetizer (or even a light meal) that everyone will rave about!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔️ Bursting with fresh flavors – A perfect balance of citrus, spice, and sweetness.
✔️ Healthy & nutritious – Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and antioxidants.
✔️ Easy to make – Simple steps and minimal cooking required.
✔️ Make-ahead friendly – It gets even better after chilling, allowing flavors to meld.
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Ingredients & Their Role
For the Shrimp:
2 lbs jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The star of the dish, providing a firm and juicy bite.
Ice water – Quickly cools the shrimp to prevent overcooking and keeps them tender.
For the Fresh Mix-ins:
2 celery stalks (thinly sliced) – Adds a light crunch and fresh flavor.
1 jalapeño (seeded & finely chopped) – Brings a mild kick of heat; add more for extra spice.
1 cucumber (chopped) – Offers a cool, refreshing contrast.
2 avocados (diced) – Adds creaminess and richness.
½ onion (finely chopped) – Enhances depth of flavor with a slight bite.
A handful of fresh cilantro (chopped) – Infuses the dish with bright, herbal notes.
For the Flavorful Sauce:
Juice & zest of 2 limes – Provides essential tanginess and enhances the seafood’s flavor.
Juice of 1 orange – Balances acidity with a hint of natural sweetness.
11.5 oz tomato juice – Forms the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, smooth consistency.
½ cup tomato sauce – Deepens the tomato flavor for a well-rounded taste.
2 garlic cloves (grated) – Adds a punch of savory goodness.
Hot sauce (to taste) – Elevates the heat level; adjust based on preference.
Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they curl into a loose "C" shape (overcooked shrimp form a tight "O").
3. Drain and immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. Once cooled, chop shrimp into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Sauce
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, tomato juice, tomato sauce, garlic, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
6. Taste and adjust spice level or seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
7. Add celery, jalapeño, cucumber, avocado, onion, and cilantro to the shrimp.
8. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and gently stir to coat everything evenly.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
10. Spoon into serving glasses or bowls, garnish with additional cilantro or avocado, and serve cold.
11. Enjoy with tortilla chips, saltine crackers, or even crispy tostadas for the ultimate experience!
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Why This Recipe is a Favorite
✔️ Authentic & Flavorful – A true taste of Mexican coastal cuisine, perfect for seafood lovers.
✔️ Customizable – Adjust the heat level with more or less jalapeño and hot sauce.
✔️ Perfect for Gatherings – A visually stunning dish that’s always a hit at parties.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
✅ Use fresh shrimp – If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
✅ Don’t overcook the shrimp – Keeping them tender is key to a perfect bite.
✅ Chill for maximum flavor – Allow at least one hour for the flavors to blend beautifully.
✅ Add extra toppings – Try diced mango, radishes, or extra lime wedges for a unique twist.
✅ Make it spicier – Use a serrano pepper instead of jalapeño for an extra fiery kick!
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Serving Suggestions
To complete the meal, pair this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail with:
Crispy tortilla chips or tostadas – Perfect for scooping up the flavorful mixture.
Chilled Mexican beer or Micheladas – A refreshing drink pairing.
Grilled corn with cotija cheese – A smoky, cheesy side dish that complements the cocktail beautifully.
A light avocado salad – Keeps the meal fresh and balanced.
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Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Try This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
This easy, refreshing, and flavorful shrimp cocktail is the ultimate warm-weather dish, perfect for everything from casual lunches to festive gatherings. The zesty citrus, fresh veggies, and bold, tangy sauce create a truly irresistible experience in every bite.
Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile—customize the spice level, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a dish that always impresses.
So, what are you waiting for? Try this authentic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail recipe today and bring a taste o
f the coast to your table!
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Loved this recipe? Share it with friends & family and leave a comment below with your favorite shrimp cocktail toppings!
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