Shrimp Cocktail: A Refreshing Classic Appetizer
A shrimp cocktail is a timeless and elegant appetizer, perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and delicate texture, it is an ideal start to a meal. This shrimp cocktail recipe combines the juicy sweetness of shrimp with a zesty, creamy cocktail sauce that packs a punch. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this refreshing dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 16 |
| Iceberg lettuce | 60g |
| Lemons | 4 |
| Egg yolk | 1 |
| Sunflower oil | 120g |
| Lemon juice | 15g |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Ketchup | 45g |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp |
| Tabasco® (optional) | to taste |
| Brandy | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information
Shrimp cocktails are not only delicious but also a great choice for those looking for a lighter, protein-packed appetizer. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cocktail Sauce
To begin, the key to a perfect shrimp cocktail is a rich, flavorful cocktail sauce. Start by separating the egg yolk from the egg white. Place the yolk into the mixing glass of a blender or a deep bowl if you’re using a hand mixer.
Add the sunflower oil to the yolk, a little at a time, while mixing vigorously to create a creamy emulsion. This process should take just a few minutes, and you’ll soon notice the mixture transforming into a thick, velvety mayonnaise-like consistency. Once the sauce is ready, add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brandy to the mix. Stir everything together until it’s well incorporated.
To finish the sauce, squeeze in the lemon juice and season with salt, pepper, and a few drops of Tabasco® sauce. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more Tabasco® for extra heat if desired. Once the sauce is to your taste, set it aside in the refrigerator to chill.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Now it’s time to prepare the shrimp. Start by cleaning the shrimp: remove the legs and shells, leaving the tails intact for an elegant presentation. Use a sharp knife to make a small incision along the back of each shrimp to remove the dark vein, or “intestine.” This step will ensure your shrimp are clean and ready to be cooked.
Next, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, drop the shrimp in—working in small batches if necessary. Let them cook for about 10 seconds, or just enough time to make them curl slightly and turn a bright pink color. You don’t want to overcook them, as this can make them tough and chewy. After blanching, remove the shrimp from the boiling water and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will ensure they stay tender and juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Iceberg Lettuce
While the shrimp are chilling, prepare the lettuce. Take the iceberg lettuce and cut it into thin strips or shred it, depending on your preference. You want enough lettuce to line the bottom of your cocktail glasses and add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the shrimp and sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp Cocktail
Once the shrimp are properly chilled, it’s time to assemble the shrimp cocktail. Take four cocktail glasses (or any type of glass or bowl you prefer) and add a small spoonful of the cocktail sauce to each. Next, place a generous portion of shredded lettuce in each glass, followed by a few shrimp. The idea is to arrange the shrimp in a way that they look elegant and inviting—tail up, with the body exposed for a beautiful presentation.
Top the shrimp with another spoonful of cocktail sauce, and garnish with a small wedge of lemon on the rim of each glass for a pop of color and extra citrus flavor. Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before serving. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making this dish even easier to prepare.
Tips for a Perfect Shrimp Cocktail:
- Fresh Shrimp: When making shrimp cocktail, it’s important to use the freshest shrimp you can find. Fresh shrimp has a delicate sweetness and firm texture that frozen shrimp just can’t replicate.
- Chill Everything: To ensure a refreshing shrimp cocktail, keep everything chilled—this includes the shrimp, the sauce, and the glasses. You can even place the glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before assembling the cocktail.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the ingredients of the cocktail sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little extra ketchup or even a splash of orange juice. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of Tabasco® or Worcestershire sauce.
- Pairing: This shrimp cocktail pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or even a light sparkling wine like Prosecco.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp cocktail as a stunning starter at your next dinner party, holiday meal, or casual gathering. It works perfectly as an appetizer for larger meals such as seafood feasts, BBQ spreads, or even as part of a Mediterranean-themed dinner. If you’re serving multiple appetizers, the shrimp cocktail is a light yet flavorful choice that complements heavier dishes like roast meats, pastas, or grilled vegetables.
For a more decadent twist, try adding some finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the cocktail sauce or sprinkling them over the shrimp before serving. You can also serve the shrimp on a bed of crushed ice for an elegant presentation, perfect for formal events or special occasions.
Conclusion
Shrimp cocktail is a sophisticated and timeless appetizer that will never go out of style. With its easy preparation, minimal ingredients, and refreshing flavors, it’s a perfect dish to make ahead for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a light starter, this shrimp cocktail will surely impress your guests. Fresh shrimp, a zesty homemade sauce, and a touch of elegance—what’s not to love?
Serve it chilled and enjoy the delicate combination of flavors that make this shrimp cocktail a crowd favorite.
