Introduction: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones) is a vibrant, flavorful, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you’re craving a light and zesty appetizer.
This popular Mexican dish is made with tender shrimp, tangy tomato juice, zesty lime, and a variety of fresh ingredients that come together in a deliciously bold sauce.
It’s often served with avocado, cilantro, and a touch of heat from hot sauce or jalapeños, making it a perfectly balanced dish that’s perfect for sharing at parties, barbecues, or as a standalone meal.
ingrédients
1 lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
1/2 cup ketchup.
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1-2 ripe tomatoes, diced
1-2 avocados, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Hot sauce (such as Valentina or Tapatío), to taste (optional)
Tortilla chips or saltine crackers for serving
Preparation:
Prepare the Shrimp:
If your shrimp aren’t already cooked, boil them in salted water until pink and opaque (about 2–3 minutes), then drain and let cool. Chop into bite-sized pieces if desired.
Mix the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, fresh lime juice, and orange juice until well combined. This forms the flavorful base of your cocktail.
Add Vegetables and Herbs:
Stir in the chopped red onion, cucumber, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Incorporate the Shrimp:
Gently fold in the cooked shrimp so they’re evenly coated with the sauce and vegetables.
Season to Taste:
Add salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste. You can adjust the amount of lime juice or ketchup depending on your preferred level of tanginess and sweetness.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This dish is best served cold.
Add Avocado Before Serving:
Just before serving, gently stir in the diced avocado to prevent it from browning or getting too mushy.
Serve:
Spoon the shrimp cocktail into individual cups or bowls. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.
Serve with tortilla chips or saltine crackers on the side for scooping.
Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful Coctel de Camarones!