Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
If the shrimp are not already cooked bring a pot of salted water to a low boil. Drop in shrimp and simmer just 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright pink and opaque. Do not overcook or they will be rubbery. Drain and rinse under cool water then peel and devein if needed. Pat dry with a paper towel
Mix the Cocktail Base:
In a large glass or ceramic bowl add tomato juice lime juice ketchup hot sauce Worcestershire if using and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk them together until completely smooth and the color is even. Taste and adjust for your desired level of tanginess or heat
Add the Vegetables:
Gently fold in the chopped onion cilantro cucumber tomatoes and jalapeños. Stir everything to combine. Cover and let the mixture sit in the fridge for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld and the veggies slightly soften while staying crisp
Combine with Shrimp:
Add the cooked cooled shrimp to the bowl with the vegetables and sauce. Use a large spoon to gently mix making sure each piece is coated without breaking up the shrimp
Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate at least 30 minutes. The longer it chills the better the flavors come together. If you have time you can let it rest up to two hours
Serve:
Just before serving gently fold in the diced avocado so it stays bright and creamy. Spoon the cocktail into glasses or small bowls making sure to get plenty of veggies and shrimp in each one
Accompany:
Pile a plate with tortilla chips or saltine crackers alongside the shrimp cocktail for scooping up every last bit of sauce
A cup filled with a Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, containing shrimp, avocado, and various other ingredients.
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A cup filled with a Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, containing shrimp, avocado, and various other ingredients. | myhomemaderecipe.com
You Must Know
Packed with lean protein and fiber
Easy to scale up for a crowd
Naturally gluten free when served with corn tortilla chips
My favorite part is always the avocado I remember my grandma showing me how to dice it right before stirring it in so it would stay perfectly green. We would laugh about sneaking a few slices to snack on while the bowl chilled.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in a tightly covered container in the fridge for up to two days but after that the shrimp can start to lose its perfect texture. If making ahead wait to add avocado until just before serving as it will brown quickly. If you have extra vegetables or sauce they can be used in salads the next day to stay fresh and flavorful
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want less heat swap jalapeños for milder peppers like poblanos. You can use Clamato juice in place of tomato juice for a brinier flavor just reduce the salt a bit. I have seen this made with cooked crab or even firm white fish if shrimp is not available just keep the seafood bite-size and well chilled
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is great as an appetizer spooned into little glasses or as a light lunch with lots of avocado on top. I like to serve it at patio parties with bowls of lime wedges and bottles of hot sauce for extra zing. Corn tostadas make a fun alternative to chips and let people pile on even more toppings
Cultural and Historical Context
Known in Mexico as coctel de camarones this dish brings together coastal seafood traditions with the flavors of fruit and spice found all over Mexican kitchens. It is a favorite at fish shacks and family gatherings across the country. Every home has its own touch but that lively combination of shrimp crunch and tang always shines through
A cup of Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is displayed on a table.
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A cup of Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is displayed on a table. | myhomemaderecipe.com
Pro Tips
Always chill the shrimp well before mixing to keep the salad crisp
For the boldest flavors squeeze lime juice fresh only bottled will not give that pop
Taste the base before adding shrimp if you like more tang or spice adjust then so you do not overwork the shrimp later
When you want a dish that feels upbeat and sunshiny this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail delivers every time. You can make it your own with the toppings and sides you love and it always reminds me of sharing fresh food with friends outdoors
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked?
Yes, simply boil raw shrimp in salted water for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque, then chill before combining.
→ What kind of tomatoes work best?
Firm, ripe tomatoes are ideal. Roma or plum tomatoes hold up well and offer bright flavor.
→ Is the cocktail spicy?
You can adjust the heat by varying the amount of jalapeño and hot sauce used according to your preference.
→ How long should the mixture chill?
For best results, chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and meld together.
→ Can I substitute other herbs for cilantro?
Fresh parsley is a common alternative, but the classic flavor relies on cilantro’s unique taste.
→ What’s best to serve alongside?
Tortilla chips or saltine crackers offer a crunchy contrast and are traditionally served on the side.
