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Classic Shrimp Cocktail1

Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Dmitri Magi
Hi there! Today, I’m sharing a quick, flavorful snack: Classic Shrimp Cocktail! It’s light, gluten-free, and perfect for parties or a treat for yourself.
Calories: 100 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 1g
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Snack
Servings 4
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium pot (to boil water)
  • Cutting board and knife (to halve the lemon)
  • Mixing bowl (to stir the cocktail sauce)
  • Measuring spoons (helpful for horseradish and other ingredients)
  • Paper towels (to pat shrimp dry)

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp 1 pound, uncooked, peeled, and deveined
  • 1 lemon halved
  • A handful of whole peppercorns
  • Cocktail Sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons horseradish adjust to taste
  • A splash of Worcestershire sauce
  • Calabrian chili peppers optional for extra spice
  • A squeeze of lemon juice
  • A splash of hot sauce optional if you like heat

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the water: Fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a boil. Drop in the halved lemon and a handful of peppercorns.
  • Turn off the heat: Once the water hits a rolling boil, turn off the heat.
  • Cook the shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the hot water. Let them soak for about 3–5 minutes. Gently move them around in the pot.
  • Check doneness: The shrimp will turn white and slightly pink on the outside when fully cooked. If in doubt, cut one open to be sure.
  • Chill the shrimp: Drain the shrimp and place them on a paper towel to remove extra moisture. Then transfer them directly to the refrigerator to cool.
  • Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, stir together the ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, Calabrian chili peppers, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Taste and adjust any ingredients as needed.
  • Serve: Once the shrimp is chilled, serve them with the cocktail sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  1. Don’t over-soak: Leaving shrimp in hot water too long can make them tough and rubbery.
  2. Taste as you go: When mixing your sauce, add a little horseradish or hot sauce at a time to avoid making it too spicy.
  3. Chill time: Make sure the shrimp cool down properly before serving—cold shrimp are key to a perfect shrimp cocktail.