Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cocktail sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the shrimp. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain well and roughly chop the shrimp.
- Step 2: Prepare the cocktail sauce (if not using store-bought). In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced jalapeño (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Step 3: Assemble the cocktail. In a large bowl, gently combine the chopped shrimp, red onion, cilantro, and diced avocado.
- Step 4: Add the cocktail sauce. Pour the prepared cocktail sauce over the shrimp mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring all the shrimp is coated.
- Step 5: Chill and serve. Refrigerate the cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled in individual glasses or bowls, garnished with extra cilantro and avocado slices, if desired. Serve with cocktail crackers or tostadas.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the ingredients to fully meld.
- Gently reheat any leftover shrimp cocktail in the microwave for short bursts, stirring between each to prevent overcooking and maintain its fresh texture.
- Elevate your serving by adding a lime wedge to each glass for an extra burst of zesty freshness and visual appeal.
- To prevent the avocado from browning too quickly, add it to the shrimp mixture just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American