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Classic Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Zesty Sauce

A platter of cooked shrimp arranged around a small glass bowl of zesty red shrimp cocktail sauce.
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Prepare a simple, impressive appetizer using perfectly poached shrimp served with a tangy, homemade cocktail sauce. This recipe is ideal for parties or as an elegant seafood starter.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the poaching liquid: Fill a large pot with water to cover the shrimp. Add the lemon halves, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  3. Chill the shrimp: Immediately drain the shrimp and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool completely, about 5 minutes. Drain well and pat dry.
  4. Make the cocktail sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using.
  5. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Assemble the dish: Arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a serving dish or glass bowl. Place the cocktail sauce in the center. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until serving time.

Notes

  • For best presentation, use shrimp that are large (21/25 count per pound).
  • You can make the cocktail sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
  • To keep the shrimp cold longer, serve the sauce in a smaller bowl nested inside a larger bowl filled with crushed ice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-zesty-sauce-recipe/